monaxon
/mɑˈnæksɑn/
noun
- A type of sponge spicule (a small skeletal element) that has a single axis or ray.
- Each monaxon in the sponge skeleton helps support the soft body of the animal.
- Under the microscope, the monaxon appeared as a tiny straight rod.
- The biologist identified the sponge species by the shape of its monaxons.