choanocyte
/ˈkoʊənəˌsaɪt/
noun
- A type of cell found in sponges that has a flagellum surrounded by a collar of tiny hairs; it helps the sponge filter food particles from the water.
- Choanocytes line the inner chambers of a sponge and create water currents.
- Each choanocyte uses its flagellum to pull water and tiny food particles inside.
- The collar of a choanocyte traps bacteria and other nutrients for the sponge to digest.
Synonyms