Definition

Noun A small, bottom-dwelling marine fish (Agonus cataphractus) of the North Atlantic, also commonly known as the armed bullhead, pogge, or hooknose. It is characterized by a bony, armored body covered in plates and spines.

Usage

This term is used specifically in marine biology and ichthyology to refer to this particular species. It is a scientific name following binomial nomenclature (genus Agonus, species cataphractus).

Examples

• The trawl net brought up several specimens of Agonus cataphractus from the seabed.
• A study focused on the feeding habits of Agonus cataphractus in coastal waters.
• The Agonus cataphractus is easily identified by its heavily armored body.

Advanced Usage

• The full scientific name is typically italicized: Agonus cataphractus.
• In formal taxonomic writing, the author who first described the species may be cited: (Linnaeus, 1758).

Variants and Related Words

• Common Names: armed bullhead, pogge, hooknose, sea poacher.
• Taxonomic Relatives: It belongs to the family Agonidae, known as poachers or sea poachers, which are all small, armored, bottom-dwelling fish.

Synonyms

• Armed bullhead
• Pogge
• Hooknose
• (Northern Atlantic) sea poacher

Antonyms

• There are no direct antonyms for a specific species name. In a broad biological context, one might contrast it with pelagic fish (fish that live in the water column, not on the bottom) or unarmored fish.

Noun

1. northern Atlantic sea poacher