gnathostomata
Definition
- Noun:
- A taxonomic superclass comprising all vertebrates with upper and lower jaws: "Gnathostomata" is the scientific name for the major group of jawed vertebrates, which includes all fish with jaws, amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals. It is a key division in vertebrate taxonomy, contrasting with jawless vertebrates (Agnatha).
Usage Examples
- Noun:
- The evolution of jaws was a pivotal event, marking the divergence of the Gnathostomata from their jawless ancestors.
- All familiar vertebrates, from sharks to humans, belong to the superclass Gnathostomata.
Advanced Usage
- In phylogenetic context: The term is used to discuss evolutionary relationships and cladistics.
- The monophyly of Gnathostomata is strongly supported by both morphological and molecular data.
Variants and Related Words
- Gnathostome (n): A member of the Gnathostomata; any jawed vertebrate.
- The fossil record provides clues about the earliest gnathostomes.
Synonyms
- Jawed vertebrates: A descriptive, non-taxonomic synonym for the members of this group.
Noun
-
comprising all vertebrates with upper and lower jaws
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