Chaetognathous

/ˌkiːtɒɡˈneɪθəs/ adjective

Definition

Having the characteristic jaw structure or bristle-like mouthparts typical of chaetognaths.

Etymology

Formed from Greek 'chaete' (bristle) and 'gnathos' (jaw) with the suffix '-ous,' meaning 'possessing the quality of' or 'characterized by.'

Kelly Says

The bristles around a chaetognathous mouth work like a Venus flytrap—they sense vibrations from tiny prey and snap shut in milliseconds, making these creatures nearly perfect hunters for their size.

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