Definition

1. Noun:
   • A taxonomic family of aquatic mammals: "family Platanistidae" is the scientific name for a specific family of toothed whales commonly known as river dolphins. This family is distinct from oceanic dolphins.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The Ganges river dolphin is a member of the family Platanistidae.
  • Conservation efforts are crucial for species within the family Platanistidae due to habitat threats.

Advanced Usage

• In taxonomic classification: The name is used in formal biological and zoological contexts to categorize a specific clade of cetaceans.
  • The phylogenetic study placed the fossil within the family Platanistidae.

Variants and Related Words

• Platanistid (adj/n): Pertaining to or a member of the family Platanistidae.
  • The researcher studied platanistid echolocation signals.

Synonyms

• River dolphins: The common name for the members of this family.

Notes on Meaning

• The term refers specifically to the biological family. It does not describe general dolphin behavior or characteristics but denotes a precise taxonomic group.

Noun

1. river dolphins