1. a small worm-like invertebrate animal with many legs, found in tropical regions and considered a living fossil
Usage: zoology

Examples

• The peripatus is often called a living fossil because it has remained virtually unchanged for millions of years.
• Scientists study the peripatus to understand the evolutionary link between worms and arthropods.
• The peripatus uses slime jets to capture its prey in the forest undergrowth.
• Researchers found several species of peripatus in the tropical rainforest.
• The peripatus has characteristics of both segmented worms and insects.
• Conservation efforts focus on protecting the habitat where peripatus species live.