peristome

• Peristom bezeichnet den Kranz zahnförmiger Fortsätze, der die Mündung der Moossporenkapsel umgibt, sowie den Bereich um den Mund bei verschiedenen wirbellosen Tieren.

A noun referring to a fringe of toothlike appendages surrounding the mouth of a moss capsule, or the region around the mouth in various invertebrates.

1. Botanical structureC2formalscientific

   A fringe of tooth-like appendages that surrounds the opening of a moss capsule, aiding in spore dispersal.

   Peristom

   • The peristome of the moss capsule opens when conditions are dry.
   • Botanists study the peristome to classify different moss species.
   • The teeth of the peristome move in response to humidity changes.

2. Zoological structureC2formalscientific

   The area or structures surrounding the mouth in various invertebrates, such as echinoderms or insects.

   Peristom

   • The sea urchin's peristome contains its feeding apparatus.
   • In some insects, the peristome is modified for specialized feeding.
   • The peristome of the starfish is located on its underside.