noun
- a cell in certain invertebrate animals that moves and functions like an amoeba, often involved in immune defense or nutrient transport
Usage: biology; zoology; also spelled amoebocyte
Examples
- Amebocytes in sponges help transport nutrients throughout the organism.
- The starfish relies on amebocytes to defend against pathogens.
- Researchers observed amebocytes moving through the body cavity of the marine worm.
- These specialized amebocytes can engulf and digest foreign particles.
- The immune system of many invertebrates depends on amebocytes for protection.