statoblast

[stat-uh-blast]

noun

Zoology.

1. (in certain bryozoans) an asexually produced group of cells encased in a chitinous covering that can survive unfavorable conditions, as freezing or drought, and germinate to produce a new colony.

statoblast

/ ˈstætəʊˌblɑːst /

noun

1. zoology an encapsulated bud produced asexually by certain bryozoans that can survive adverse conditions and that gives rise to a new colony

Word History and Origins

Origin of statoblast¹

1850–55; stato- (combining form of Greek statós standing; akin to status, static ) + -blast

Example Sentences

Swim-ring A ring of polygonal air-spaces surrounding the statoblast.

From Project Gutenberg

The most definite character in which this species differs from F. sultana and F. australiensis is the ornamentation of one surface of the statoblast, both surfaces of which are smooth in the two latter species.

From Project Gutenberg

I have, however, seen only one instance of this premature development, in a single statoblast contained in a small zoarium of P. fruticosa found in Lower Burma in March.

From Project Gutenberg

Three species of Lophopodella, all of which occur in Africa, have been described; L. capensis from S. Africa, which has the ends of the statoblast greatly produced, L. thomasi from Rhodesia, in which they are distinctly concave, and L. carteri from E. Africa, India and Japan, in which they are convex or truncate.

From Project Gutenberg

This variety differs from the typical form in having fewer tentacles and in the fact that the marginal processes of the statoblast are abortive or absent.

From Project Gutenberg