The aboral madreporite is a sievelike structure found on the aboral (opposite the mouth) surface of echinoderms, such as sea stars. It functions in filtering water into the water vascular system, which is crucial for locomotion and feeding.
Water Vascular System: A network of hydraulic canals unique to echinoderms that aids in locomotion, feeding, and gas exchange.
Tube Feet: Small, flexible appendages operated by hydraulic pressure within the water vascular system, used for movement and capturing prey.
Echinoderms: A phylum of marine animals characterized by radial symmetry, a calcareous skeleton, and a water vascular system.