Definition

Proper noun: * Family Lamnidae: A taxonomic family of large, active, pelagic sharks within the order Lamniformes. They are commonly known as mackerel sharks or white sharks. Key characteristics include a pointed snout, a crescent-shaped tail, and being warm-bodied (regional endothermy), which allows for higher activity levels in cold water.

Usage

• The term Family Lamnidae is used in scientific and zoological contexts to classify and discuss this specific group of sharks. It is always capitalized as it is a proper noun denoting a taxonomic rank.
• Example: "The great white shark () is the most famous member of Family Lamnidae."
• Example: "Species within Family Lamnidae are apex predators in many marine ecosystems."

Advanced Usage

• In phylogenetic studies, Family Lamnidae is often discussed in relation to its sister families within the order Lamniformes.
• Example: "The evolutionary history of Family Lamnidae suggests a divergence from a common ancestor with the family Cetorhinidae (basking sharks)."

Variants and Related Words

• Lamnid (adjective/noun): Pertaining to or a member of the Family Lamnidae.
  • Example (adj.): "The lamnid sharks include some of the ocean's fastest swimmers."
  • Example (noun): "The shortfin mako is a powerful lamnid."
• Lamniformes (proper noun): The order to which Family Lamnidae belongs.
• Mackerel sharks (common noun): The common name for sharks in this family.

Synonyms

• Mackerel sharks (common name)
• White shark family (informal, though this can be ambiguous as it references a single prominent species)

Different Meanings

• The word "family" in a non-scientific context has a completely different meaning (a group of related people). In Family Lamnidae, "family" is a specific rank in biological classification (taxonomy), below "order" and above "genus."

Noun

1. oceanic sharks