MALACOSTOMOUS Meaning and
Definition
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Malacostomous is an adjective derived from the combination of the Greek words "malakos" meaning "soft" and "stoma" meaning "mouth." It is a scientific term used primarily in the field of zoology to describe certain organisms, specifically fishes, that possess a soft or delicate mouth structure.
In the context of fishes, malacostomous refers to the anatomical feature of having a mouth that lacks strong or rigid structures. This makes the mouth more flexible and capable of expanding in order to accommodate large prey or food items. Such species typically have a malleable or extensible jaw that permits a wide gape, enabling them to catch and ingest relatively large prey compared to other fish species.
The malacostomous adaptation is particularly advantageous for piscine species that consume prey items that are difficult to capture or swallow whole. It allows them to utilize a suction feeding mechanism, rapidly expanding their mouth to create a vacuum-like effect that pulls prey into the oral cavity. This specialized adaptation is found in various fish families, such as several species of moray eels, snakeheads, and anglerfish.
Overall, the term malacostomous serves to describe the distinctive mouth structure observed in certain fish species, highlighting their unique ability to adapt their soft and pliable mouth for efficient feeding and prey capture.
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Having soft jaws without teeth, as most fish.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for MALACOSTOMOUS
- nalacostomous
- kalacostomous
- jalacostomous
- mzlacostomous
- mslacostomous
- mwlacostomous
- mqlacostomous
- makacostomous
- mapacostomous
- maoacostomous
- malzcostomous
- malscostomous
- malwcostomous
- malqcostomous
- malaxostomous
- malavostomous
- malafostomous
- maladostomous
- malacistomous
Etymology of MALACOSTOMOUS
The word "malacostomous" is derived from two Greek roots: "malakós" meaning "soft", and "stóma" meaning "mouth". When combined, they form "malacostomous", which refers to a specific type of anatomical structure found in certain animals, such as fish and insects. The term describes a soft or flexible mouthpart, often associated with feeding or eating behaviors.
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