Definition

1. Noun:
   • A taxonomic subclass of cartilaginous fish: "Subclass Elasmobranchii" is the scientific classification for a major group of fish characterized by having a skeleton made of cartilage, five to seven gill slits on each side of the head, and placoid scales (dermal denticles). This group includes sharks, rays, skates, and sawfish.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The great white shark belongs to the Subclass Elasmobranchii.
  • Marine biologists study the diverse species within Subclass Elasmobranchii.

Advanced Usage

• In taxonomic hierarchy: The term is used in formal biological classification. It sits below the class Chondrichthyes (cartilaginous fish) and contains several orders.
  • The fossil record provides evidence for the early evolution of Subclass Elasmobranchii.

Variants and Related Words

• Elasmobranch (n): A common name for any member of the Subclass Elasmobranchii.
  • Sharks and rays are both elasmobranchs.
• Chondrichthyes (n): The class to which this subclass belongs.
• Selachii (n): Sometimes used to refer to the shark grouping within elasmobranchs.

Synonyms

• Elasmobranchs: The informal group name for members of this subclass.
• Cartilaginous fishes (in part): While the class Chondrichthyes includes all cartilaginous fish, this term is often used informally to refer specifically to sharks and rays.

Related Terms (Scientific Context)

• Placoid scales: The tooth-like scales characteristic of elasmobranchs.
• Gill slits: The multiple, separate openings for gills, as opposed to a single covered gill opening in bony fish.

Noun

1. sharks; rays; dogfishes; skates