rotifer

[ roh-tuh-fer ]

noun

1. any microscopic animal of the phylum (or class) Rotifera, found in fresh and salt waters, having one or more rings of cilia on the anterior end.

rotifer

/ ˈrəʊtɪfə; rəʊˈtɪfərəl /

noun

1. any minute aquatic multicellular invertebrate of the phylum Rotifera , having a ciliated wheel-like organ used in feeding and locomotion: common constituents of freshwater plankton Also calledwheel animalcule

rotifer

/ rō′tə-fər /

1. Any of various tiny, multicellular aquatic animals of the phylum Rotifera, having a wheel-like ring of cilia at their front ends. The cilia trap small organisms for food. Rotifers are grouped by some scientists together with nematodes and some other invertebrates as aschelminths.

Derived Forms

• rotiferal, adjective

Other Words From

• ro·tif·er·al [roh-, tif, -er-, uh, l], ro·tifer·ous adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of rotifer¹

From New Latin, dating back to 1785–95; Rotifera

Word History and Origins

Origin of rotifer¹

C18: from New Latin Rotifera , from Latin rota wheel + ferre to bear

Example Sentences

On these occasions the common rotifer was the subject of the experiment.

From Project Gutenberg

The Asplanchna, the mouthless male of a Rotifer, (p. 292) alone remains for me.

From Project Gutenberg

On several occasions I have observed them perform a kind of dance, a pas seul, for each rotifer would be alone by itself.

From Project Gutenberg

This rotifer goes through another performance which I also believe to be simply a pastime.

From Project Gutenberg

The Rotifer vulgaris will even bear revivification several times.

From Project Gutenberg