Sealife guideThe sea life glossaryOur glossaries

Last updated on 09/12/2026 at 01:37 PM
English
Description
French
S
Français
scale
Définition
A small, rigid plate covering the skin of a fish, providing protection and reducing water resistance.
Anglais
écaille
Français
sessile
Définition
Fixed in one place and not capable of movement.
Anglais
sessile
Français
shade-loving
Définition
An organism that prefers or thrives in shaded or low-light environments.
Anglais
sciaphile
Français
spermatophore
Définition
A structure produced by the male that contains sperm and allows it to be transferred to the female during reproduction.
Anglais
spermatophore
Français
spermatozoon, sperm cell
Définition
Male reproductive cell that is motile and capable of fertilizing an egg.
Anglais
spermatozoïde
Français
spicule
Définition
A small, needle-like structure that forms part of the skeleton of sponges, providing support and protection.
Anglais
spicule
Français
spongin
Définition
A fibrous protein that forms the flexible skeleton of certain sponges.
Anglais
spongine
Français
stipe
Définition
The stalk or stem that supports the cap of a mushroom or the frond of certain plants and algae.
Anglais
stipe
Français
subtropical
Définition
Located in or characteristic of regions immediately north or south of the tropics, with warm, often humid climates.
Anglais
subtropical
Français
sun-loving
Définition
An organism that prefers or thrives in well-lit or sunny environments.
Anglais
photophile
Looking for the definition of a term but can't find it ? Or want to suggest one ? Contact us and we'll be happy to help !

Our latestUpdates

The Caribbean king crab
Saturday, September 12th 2026
The Caribbean king crab
Discover the Caribbean king crab (Maguimithrax spinosissimus), an impressive reef crab found throughout the Caribbean and western Atlantic.
The reticulated sandperch
Thursday, September 10th 2026
The reticulated sandperch
Discover the reticulated sandperch (Parapercis tetracantha), a small Indo-Pacific fish known for its elongated body and distinctive brown and white pattern.
The wedgetail triggerfish
Monday, September 7th 2026
The wedgetail triggerfish
Discover the wedgetail triggerfish, Hawaii's famous state fish. Learn about its vibrant colors, coral reef habitat, unique behavior, and cultural significance in Hawaii.
Photo of the Day
Requin léopard (Triakis semifasciata)
Requin léopard
(Triakis semifasciata)