A subclass of sponges characterized by tree-like branching structures and a horny skeletal composition.
From Greek dendro- (tree) + Latin ceratina (wax-like or horn-like substance). This scientific term emerged in marine biology to classify sponges with horn-like spicules arranged in dendritic (branching) patterns.
These ancient sponges have been filtering ocean water for hundreds of millions of years with the same basic body design—their tree-like branches maximize surface area for capturing microscopic food particles, which is why evolution hasn't needed to change them much!
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.