Definition

Proper noun * Family Latimeridae: A taxonomic family of lobe-finned fish (coelacanths), considered extinct until the discovery of living members. This family is characterized by its ancient lineage and unique anatomical features, such as limb-like fins.

Usage

• "Family Latimeridae" is used in scientific and zoological contexts to classify a specific group of fish within the order Coelacanthiformes.
• It is typically preceded by the taxonomic rank "family" but can be referred to simply as "Latimeridae" in technical writing.

Examples

• The coelacanth, a living fossil, is the sole surviving genus within the family Latimeridae.
• Fossils show that Latimeridae was once more widespread.
• Scientists study the family Latimeridae to understand vertebrate evolution.

Advanced Usage

• The term is central to discussions in paleontology, evolutionary biology, and ichthyology.
• It is often used in contrast with other extinct coelacanth families to highlight the unique survival of .

Variants and Related Words

• Latimeridae: The standard abbreviated form of the family name, used interchangeably in scientific literature.
• Coelacanth: The common name for the living fish belonging to this family (genus ).
• Latimeria: The sole extant genus within the family Latimeridae.

Synonyms

• There are no direct common-language synonyms. In precise scientific classification, it is synonymous only with itself. Periphrastically, it can be described as "the coelacanth family."

Different Meanings

This term has a single, specific meaning in biological taxonomy. It does not have other general definitions.

Noun

1. extinct except for the coelacanth