Definition

A type of larva from a jellyfish, which is shaped like a polyp and can develop into free-swimming jellyfish.

Example

The scyphistoma is an important stage in the life cycle of jellyfish.

Conversation

Did you know that a scyphistoma is an interesting stage in the life cycle of jellyfish?

Really? I had no idea jellyfish had such unique stages.

Yeah, the scyphistoma eventually develops into free-swimming medusas.

That's so cool! Nature has some fascinating processes.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Scyphistoma is formed from "scyphus" (from Greek "σκύφος", meaning cup) and "stoma" (from Greek "στόμα", meaning mouth or opening). The word refers to a life stage of certain jellyfish that resembles a cup with an opening, which is characteristic of its form.

Memory Tip

Imagine a cup ('scyphus') with an opening ('stoma') — this helps you remember that a scyphistoma is a jellyfish stage that looks like a cup with a mouth.

Visually Confused Words