1. Animals that possess a true body cavity (coelom) lined with mesoderm; members of the group Coelomata.
Usage: biology; plural form of coelomate; used in zoological classification

Examples

• Coelomates include most familiar animals such as mammals, birds, fish, and insects.
• The presence of a true coelom distinguishes coelomates from simpler organisms.
• In evolutionary biology, coelomates represent a major advancement in animal body organization.
• Vertebrates are all coelomates with well-developed body cavities.
• The coelom in coelomates allows for greater organ complexity and specialization.