subclass elasmobranchii
Definition
- 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
-
sharks; rays; dogfishes; skates
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