holdfast

(noun)

a root-like structure that anchors aquatic sessile organisms, such as seaweed, other sessile algae, stalked crinoids, benthic cnidarians, and sponges, to the substrate

Related Terms

Examples of holdfast in the following topics:

  • Phylum Rotifera

    • Rotifers are typically free-swimming and truly planktonic organisms, but the toes or extensions of the foot can secrete a sticky material forming a holdfast to help them adhere to surfaces.

  • Chromalveolata: Stramenopiles

    • Some brown algae have evolved specialized tissues that resemble terrestrial plants, with root-like holdfasts, stem-like stipes, and leaf-like blades that are capable of photosynthesis.

  • Phylum Porifera

    • Sponge larvae are able to swim; however, adults are non-motile and spend their life attached to a substratum through a holdfast.