Entoproct

/ˈɛntəprɒkt/ noun

Definition

A small aquatic animal of the phylum Entoprocta, which are microscopic creatures that live on surfaces in water and have a ring of tentacles around their mouth.

Etymology

Greek 'entos' (within) + 'proktos' (anus). Named because their anus is located inside their ring of tentacles, unlike bryozoans.

Kelly Says

Entoprocts are some of the tiniest animals in the ocean—barely visible to the naked eye—yet they're so distinct that scientists gave them their own entire animal phylum based on their unique anatomy.

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