What does acoelomate mean?
Acoelomate is a term used in biology to describe animals that lack a body cavity, also known as a coelom. This means that their internal organs are directly surrounded by their digestive system, rather than being housed in a separate cavity. Acoelomates are typically simple animals, such as flatworms, and are often found in aquatic environments. The term acoelomate is often contrasted with vertebrate, which refers to animals with a backbone. Acoelomates are of interest to biologists because they provide insights into the evolution of animal body plans and the development of internal organs. The study of acoelomates has also led to a greater understanding of the diversity of animal life on Earth.
noun
An animal that lacks a body cavity, with its internal organs directly surrounding its digestive system.
- 1. An animal that lacks a body cavity, with its internal organs directly surrounding its digestive system.
"Flatworms are acoelomates, meaning they do not have a body cavity to house their internal organs."
"Flatworms are acoelomates, meaning they do not have a body cavity to house their internal organs."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of acoelomate
The term acoelomate comes from the Greek words 'a' meaning 'without' and 'coelom' meaning 'body cavity'. It was first used in the 19th century to describe animals that lacked a body cavity. The study of acoelomates has a long history, dating back to the work of early biologists such as Aristotle and Linnaeus.
Usage notes
Acoelomate is a formal term used in biology and zoology. It is not commonly used in everyday language.