HOMOCERCAL Meaning and
Definition
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Homocercal is an adjective used to describe a type of fish tail that possesses two symmetrical lobes of equal size, giving the appearance of a straight or flattened extension of the vertebral column. This term is commonly used in ichthyology, the study of fish, to describe the characteristic tail shape found in certain species.
The homocercal tail is a distinguishing feature of many bony fish, including most teleosts, such as salmon, trout, perch, and bass. The structure provides these fish with enhanced speed and agility in water, as the symmetrical lobes facilitate efficient swimming and maneuvering capabilities.
The term "homocercal" is derived from the Greek words "homo," meaning "same," and "kéras," meaning "tail." This name accurately reflects the equal size and shape of the upper and lower lobes in this type of tail.
Contrasting with the homocercal tail, some fish species possess a heterocercal tail, which is characterized by asymmetrical lobes. In heterocercal tails, the upper lobe is generally larger than the lower lobe. Sharks and other elasmobranchs are notable examples of fish with heterocercal tails.
In summary, homocercal describes the characteristics of a fish tail that has two symmetrical lobes of equal size. It is a common adaptation in bony fish that facilitates effective swimming and maneuverability.
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Having equally-bilobate tails, as the herring, the cod, &c.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for HOMOCERCAL
- gomocercal
- bomocercal
- nomocercal
- jomocercal
- uomocercal
- yomocercal
- himocercal
- hkmocercal
- hlmocercal
- hpmocercal
- h0mocercal
- h9mocercal
- honocercal
- hokocercal
- hojocercal
- homicercal
- homkcercal
- homlcercal
- hompcercal
Etymology of HOMOCERCAL
The word "homocercal" is derived from two Greek roots: "homo" meaning "same" or "uniform", and "kerkos" meaning "tail". The term was first used by naturalists and ichthyologists (scientists who study fish) to describe a specific type of fish tail configuration found in certain species.
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