acanthocephalous
adj. C2 Proficiency acan·tho·cephalous
adj. having a head that looks like a thorn or a spiny plant. This describes a specific type of animal that has a spiny covering on its head.
adj. possessing a head that resembles a thorn or is covered in spines. Refers to a specific group of parasitic worms known as acanthocephalans.
The acanthocephalous worm has a spiny head.
Biologists identified the specimen as an acanthocephalous parasite based on its distinctive spiny proboscis.
The acanthocephalous structure of the parasite's head allows it to anchor itself firmly within the intestinal tract of its host, facilitating nutrient absorption and long-term survival.
From translingual Acanthocephala + -ous.