pedicellaria

From New Latin pedīcellus (“small foot”) +‎ -aria.

• (Received Pronunciation) IPA^(key): /ˌpɛdɪsəˈlɛəɹi.ə/
• (General American) IPA^(key): /ˌpɛdəsəˈlɛɹi.ə/
• Rhymes: -ɛəɹi.ə

pedicellaria (plural pedicellariae)

1. (biology) A small, stalk-shaped structure of the sea urchin and other echinoderms, which has three pincer-like structures at the end that perform cleaning functions and serve as defense against predators.
   • 2001, Julian Sprung, Invertebrates: A Quick Reference Guide:

     Short inconspicuous spines hidden by large, flower-like pedicillaria.

• pedicel