Enterocoelom

Definition

An enterocoelom is a type of body cavity that forms within the mesodermal tissue through the process of enterocoely. It is characteristic of certain deuterostomes, including echinoderms and chordates.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Enterocoelom formation involves the outpocketing of the mesodermal layer to create a coelomic cavity.
2. It is one of the distinguishing features of deuterostomes, separating them from protostomes.
3. The coelomic cavities formed by enterocoely can lead to more complex organ development and greater body flexibility.
4. In vertebrates, structures such as the pericardial, pleural, and peritoneal cavities are derived from an enterocoelom.
5. Enterocoely contrasts with schizocoely, another method of coelom formation found in protostomes.

Related terms

Deuterostome: Animals characterized by their embryonic development; the first opening becomes the anus.

Mesoderm: The middle germ layer in embryonic development that gives rise to muscles, bones, and other organs.

Schizocoely: A method of coelom formation where a solid mass of mesoderm splits to form a cavity, typical in protostomes.