Medusan (Noun)
Meaning
One of two forms that coelenterates take: it is the free-swimming sexual phase in the life cycle of a coelenterate; in this phase it has a gelatinous umbrella-shaped body and tentacles.
Classification
Nouns denoting animals.
Examples
- The medusan form of the jellyfish is characterized by its translucent, umbrella-shaped body and long, stinging tentacles.
- In the life cycle of a coelenterate, the medusan phase is the free-swimming, sexual stage that precedes the polyp stage.
- The medusan form of the coelenterate is typically short-lived, lasting only a few days or weeks before transforming into a polyp.
- During the medusan phase, the coelenterate is capable of reproducing sexually, releasing sperm or eggs into the water column.
- The medusan form of the jellyfish is often bioluminescent, emitting a bright blue or green glow in the dark waters.