ctenidium

noun

cte·​nid·​i·​um
-ēəm
plural ctenidia
-ēə
1
: the gill of a mollusk consisting typically of a respiratory structure that resembles a comb or feather, has a main stem with lateral lamellae, and is developed from the inner side of the mantle
distinguished from ceras
2
: a structure consisting of a row of spines resembling the teeth of a comb on the head or thorax, or both, of certain fleas

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from cten- + -idium

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Cite this Entry

“Ctenidium.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ctenidium. Accessed 18 Mar. 2024.

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