spicule
spic.ule \'spik-(.)yu:(*)l\ \.spik-yu.-'lif-(*-)r*s\ n [NL spicula & L spiculum] : a minute slender pointed usu. hard body; esp : one of the minute calcareous or siliceous bodies that support the tissues of various invertebrates - spic.u.lif.er.ous aj