CHEIRACANTHUS Meaning and
Definition
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Cheiracanthus is a noun that refers to an extinct genus of prehistoric fish that lived during the Devonian period, which lasted from around 419 to 359 million years ago. It belonged to the acanthodian group of fishes, commonly known as "spiny sharks".
The name "cheiracanthus" is derived from the Greek words "cheir" meaning "hand" or "arm", and "akantha" meaning "thorn". This is in reference to the distinctive features of this fish genus, which include the presence of sharp, spiny scales or plates along its body.
Members of the cheiracanthus genus were relatively small in size, typically measuring around 20 to 40 centimeters in length. They had elongated bodies and a streamlined shape, which likely allowed them to swim swiftly and efficiently. These fishes had a dominant dorsal fin positioned towards the posterior end of their bodies, and their pectoral fins were quite large and well-developed.
The spiny scales or plates, known as dermal denticles, provided cheiracanthus with both protection and hydrodynamic advantages. They may have deterred predators and reduced drag, allowing for more effective swimming.
Cheiracanthus fossils have been found in various parts of the world, including North America, Europe, and Asia. These fossils play a crucial role in providing insights into the evolution and diversity of ancient aquatic ecosystems during the Devonian period.
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A small fossil fish armed with defensive spines.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for CHEIRACANTHUS
- chiracanthis
- xheiracanthus
- vheiracanthus
- fheiracanthus
- dheiracanthus
- cgeiracanthus
- cbeiracanthus
- cneiracanthus
- cjeiracanthus
- cueiracanthus
- cyeiracanthus
- chwiracanthus
- chsiracanthus
- chdiracanthus
- chriracanthus
- ch4iracanthus
- ch3iracanthus
- cheuracanthus
- chejracanthus
- chekracanthus
Etymology of CHEIRACANTHUS
The word cheiracanthus has its roots in Greek. It is derived from two Greek words: cheir which means hand and acanthus which means thorn or spine. When combined, cheiracanthus can be understood as hand thorn or spine of the hand.
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