#acanthiferous

• Acanthiferous — An anatomical and zoological term used to describe an organism, organ, or anatomical structure that is covered with spines, thorns, or sharp rigid formations, or that bears such defensive elements. In taxonomy and paleontology, this adjective serves as an essential morphological criterion for describing and classifying certain marine invertebrate species (such as radiolarians or some bryozoans) or fossil reptiles whose exoskeletons or shells are equipped with spiny extensions.