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Pedicellariae are minute, pincer-like organs found on the external surface of sea urchins and starfish. These structures are numerous and are believed to function in keeping the body clear of small parasites and other foreign objects. They are part of the skeletal system of echinoderms, which are marine invertebrates characterized by a five-part body symmetry. In sea urchins, pedicellariae, along with movable spines, arise from nodules on their test, or internal skeleton. These organs are absent in some echinoderm groups, such as crinoids, ophiuroids, and holothurians.1234

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