vibraculum
/vaɪˈbrækjʊləm/
noun
- A specialized, whip-like structure found in certain colonial animals (bryozoans) that moves to sweep away debris or deter predators.
- Under the microscope, the vibraculum looked like a tiny, moving whip.
- Each vibraculum helps protect the entire colony from settling particles.
- The vibraculum of the bryozoan colony constantly sweeps the surface clean.