Definition

Noun: A member of the class Chondrichthyes; a fish whose internal skeleton is composed of cartilage, which may be strengthened by calcification (deposits of calcium salts) but not by true bone (ossification). This class includes sharks, rays, skates, and chimaeras.

Usage

The term is a scientific/zoological classification. It is used to describe and categorize this specific group of fish in biological, ecological, and paleontological contexts. - The great white shark is a well-known chondrichthian. - The fossil record shows that chondrichthians have existed for hundreds of millions of years.

Advanced Usage

• The term is often used in contrast with "osteichthyan" (bony fish).
• It can be used adjectivally in compound forms (see Variants), though the primary use is as a noun.

Variants and Related Words

• Chondrichthyes (noun, plural): The scientific class name for all cartilaginous fish.
• Chondrichthyan (adjective): Relating to or characteristic of this class of fish.
  • The study focused on chondrichthyan anatomy.

Synonyms

• Cartilaginous fish
• Elasmobranch (though this typically refers to sharks, rays, and skates, excluding chimaeras)

Different Meanings

The word "chondrichthian" has a single, specific zoological meaning and is not used in idiomatic or general language.

Noun

1. fishes in which the skeleton may be calcified but not ossified