How Do You Spell SAND DOLLARS?

Pronunciation: [sˈand dˈɒləz] (IPA)

The spelling of the word "Sand Dollars" can be explained using the IPA phonetic transcription. The first syllable, "sand," is pronounced as /sænd/, with the "a" sound like in "cat" and the "d" sound at the end. The second syllable, "dollars," is pronounced as /ˈdɑlərz/, with the stress on the first syllable and the "a" sound as in "father." The "r" sound is pronounced at the end. Sand dollars are flat disc-shaped sea creatures that are often found on beaches.

SAND DOLLARS Meaning and Definition

  1. Sand dollars are marine invertebrates of the class Echinoidea, characterized by their disc-like shape and appearance similar to a coin, hence the name "sand dollar". They are found in shallow marine habitats, particularly along sandy beaches and ocean floors, predominantly in temperate and tropical regions worldwide.

    These organisms possess hard exoskeletons called tests, which are typically circular and flattened. The color of the test varies between species and is generally pale or white, often with a pattern resembling flower petals. The top surface of a sand dollar's test is covered with fine spines, while the bottom surface is smooth.

    Sand dollars are related to sea urchins and have a unique feeding mode. They are filter feeders, utilizing their tube feet to capture and transport microscopic particles of food from the surrounding water. Their diet primarily consists of plankton and organic detritus.

    Reproduction in sand dollars is sexual, with separate male and female individuals. Fertilization occurs externally, and the females release vast numbers of eggs into the water column, where they are fertilized by the male gametes. The eggs then develop into planktonic larvae, which eventually settle on the ocean floor and metamorphose into small sand dollars.

    These fragile creatures often wash up on beaches after dying or being dislodged from the seafloor by wave action. Due to their unique appearance and association with coastal environments, sand dollars are frequently collected as souvenirs or used in crafts and decorations.

Top Common Misspellings for SAND DOLLARS *

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Etymology of SAND DOLLARS

The word "sand dollars" derives from the appearance of these organisms and the currency they resemble. The first part, "sand", refers to the sandy environments in which sand dollars are commonly found. The second part, "dollars", is a reference to the round shape and symmetry of these creatures, which resembles a coin. The name emphasizes the physical similarity between sand dollars and silver dollars or coins, attributing value to their unique appearance.