noun
- A microscopic aquatic animal belonging to the phylum Gastrotricha, typically found in freshwater and marine environments.
Usage: scientific; biology
Examples
- Gastrotrichs are among the smallest animals in aquatic ecosystems.
- Under a microscope, the gastrotrich's ciliated body is clearly visible.
- Marine gastrotrichs play an important role in nutrient cycling on the ocean floor.
- Freshwater gastrotrichs are commonly found in moss and sediment samples.
- The gastrotrich uses its cilia to move through water and capture food particles.