Definition

1. Noun:
   • A taxonomic family of marine animals: "Family Pennatulidae" is the scientific name for a specific family of colonial cnidarians commonly known as sea pens. These are marine organisms related to corals and sea anemones.

Usage

• The term is used primarily in scientific, biological, and zoological contexts to classify and discuss these specific marine animals.
• It functions as a proper noun, referring to the formal taxonomic group.

Examples

• Noun:
  • The researcher identified the specimen as a member of the family Pennatulidae.
  • Several species within the family Pennatulidae exhibit bioluminescence.

Advanced Usage

• In taxonomic hierarchy, "Family Pennatulidae" is part of the order Pennatulacea. The name is always capitalized when referring to the formal taxonomic rank.

Variants and Related Words

• Pennatulidae (n): The abbreviated form of the family name, often used interchangeably in technical writing.
• Sea pen (n): The common name for any member of the order Pennatulacea, which includes Family Pennatulidae. A sea pen is a type of octocoral.
• Pennatulacean (n/adj): Pertaining to or a member of the order Pennatulacea.

Synonyms

• Sea pens (common name)

Notes

• This is a specialized scientific term. In everyday language, the common name "sea pens" is used.
• The structure resembles an old-fashioned quill pen, hence the common name.

Noun

1. sea pens