Branchial Arch (Noun)
Meaning
One of the bony or cartilaginous arches on each side of the pharynx that support the gills of fishes and aquatic amphibians.
Classification
Nouns denoting animals.
Examples
- The pharyngeal slits and branchial arches of the fish formed the main structural components supporting the gills.
- Branchial arches provide support for the delicate filaments of the gill rakers in marine animals.
- Aquatic amphibians possess well-developed branchial arches that facilitate effective gas exchange through their gills.
- The morphological features of the branchial arches are distinct in different species of fish, reflecting variations in their respiratory systems.
- During embryonic development, the formation of branchial arches is crucial for the development of the respiratory system in many aquatic animals.