Glossary

9 terms beginning with Z

1. zoea

   Early, planktonic larval form common in decapod crustaceans, e.g., crabs, characterised by possession of well-developed abdominal appendages and one or more spines on the carapace.

2. zoobenthos

   Those animal species dwelling on or in the bottom of a water body.

   Used in 9 profiles

3. zoological nomenclature

   Taxonomic system of scientific names for zoological taxa and the provisions for the formation, treatment, and use of those names. See ICZN.

4. zoology

   Scientific study of animals, including their classification, structure, physiology, and history; the fauna native to a given area and its composition; the biological characteristics of a particular animal or group of animals.

   Used in 3 profiles

5. zoonosis

   A disease that can be transmitted from lower animals to humans or vice versa.

6. zoophagous

   Feeding on animals; practising zoophagy.

7. zoophagy

   Feeding on animals.

8. zooplankton

   Plankton or planktonic constituent composed of small animals such as crustaceans and larval fishes.

   Used in 318 profiles

9. zooxanthella

   Any member of the yellow-green algae genus Symbiodinium, comprising unicellular, flagellate protozoa that exist within the cells of other protozoa and some invertebrates, especially corals. They thus form an endosymbiosis in which they can provide up to 90% of the host's energy requirements.