noun
- A specialized cell in sponges that has a flagellum and collar-like structure, used to draw water through the sponge and filter food particles.
Usage: biology; zoology; technical term
Examples
- Choanocytes line the inner chambers of sponges and create water currents.
- The flagellum of a choanocyte beats to move water through the sponge's body.
- Each choanocyte has a collar of microvilli that traps food particles.
- Sponges rely on choanocytes for both feeding and water circulation.
- The structure of choanocytes is similar to certain single-celled organisms called choanoflagellates.