Suborder Petromyzoniformes (Noun)
Meaning
Lampreys as distinguished from hagfishes.
Classification
Nouns denoting animals.
Examples
- Lampreys belong to the suborder Petromyzoniformes, which is a distinct group of eel-like fish that are characterized by their suction cup-like mouth and razor-sharp teeth.
- The suborder Petromyzoniformes is thought to have diverged from the common ancestor of all vertebrates over 360 million years ago, and has since evolved into a unique group of fish.
- One of the key characteristics that distinguishes lampreys in the suborder Petromyzoniformes from hagfishes is the presence of a notochord, a flexible rod-like structure that provides support and stiffness to the body.
- The suborder Petromyzoniformes is also characterized by the presence of a dorsal fin and a caudal fin, which are used for balance and propulsion through the water.
- In contrast to hagfishes, lampreys in the suborder Petromyzoniformes have a well-developed brain and a complex nervous system, which allows them to detect and respond to their environment in a more sophisticated way.