cyclostomata

Thân thiện

A lamprey, a member of Cyclostomata, attaches to a fish in a freshwater stream.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • A taxonomic class of primitive jawless aquatic vertebrates: "Cyclostomata" refers to a class of fish-like vertebrates that lack jaws and possess a circular, sucking mouth. This group includes lampreys and hagfishes.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The Cyclostomata are considered the most primitive living vertebrates.
  • Lampreys and hagfishes belong to the class Cyclostomata.

Advanced Usage

• In scientific taxonomy: The term is used in formal biological classification to group jawless fish distinct from jawed vertebrates (Gnathostomata).
  • The evolutionary relationship between Cyclostomata and other vertebrates is a key area of research.

Variants and Related Words

• Cyclostome (n): A member of the Cyclostomata; a jawless fish.
  • The sea lamprey is a well-known cyclostome.

Synonyms

• Agnatha: An older, synonymous taxonomic superclass for jawless vertebrates, which includes Cyclostomata and extinct groups like ostracoderms.

Notes on Meaning

• The term "Cyclostomata" is used almost exclusively in formal biological and zoological contexts. It is not used in everyday language.

Học thuật

Noun

1. primitive jawless aquatic vertebrate: lampreys; hagfishes

Từ đồng nghĩa

• Cyclostomata
• order Cyclostomata