microsclere

Small sponge needle

A microsclere is a small skeletal element found in sponges, typically forming part of the organism's supportive structure alongside larger spicules called megascleres.

These minute needle-like or star-shaped structures help reinforce sponge tissue and are used by biologists to classify sponge species: The microscleres in this specimen suggest it belongs to the Demospongiae.

morphology

sigma

Eighteenth Greek letter

rosetteCircular ribbon ornament
stellateRadiating from center
rayNarrow light emission

spine · hook · anchor · whorl · radiate · symmetry

structure

spicule

Minute sharp projection

siliceousContaining or resembling quartz
calcareousContainingite calcium carbonate chalk
skeletalOf or like bones

framework · support · reinforcement · scaffold · lattice · network · architecture · formation · arrangement · configuration

biology

secretion

Substance released by glands

silicaSilicon dioxide compound
calcium carbonateMineral in shells and marble
depositionFormal testimony under oath

growth · development · formation · collagen · differentiation · cellular

research

scanning

Systematic visual examination

imagingProducing visual representations
identificationEstablishing who someone is
classificationSystematic grouping by traits

taxonomy · measurement · diagnosis · specimen · slide · preparation · dissolution · SEM · voucher · description

Categories

spiculesspicules, aster, sigma, chela, style

Opposites

spicule size category

microscleremegasclere

Large structural sponge spicule

Family

microscope, micro, microscopic, megasclere, microscopically, microscale, sclerotic

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