Pronunciation: shi-zo-SEE-lik SEE-lom

Etymology: The phrase, schizocoelic coelom (the use of coelom here really is redundant in this phrase) is derived from two Greek roots that mean a split (schizo, σχίζω) and hollow (koilos, κοίλος). The reference is to the way a schizocoel forms by splitting the mesoderm.

Schizocoelic (adj.) describes a type of true coelom that develops by the separation of mesoderm tissue. In the illustration below, the mesoderm develops during gastrulation, followed by the development of the schizocoel within the mesoderm.

By Jack R. Holt. Last revised: 01/03/2009