Term | Definition |
Agnathans | class of marine vertebrates that have no jaws or appendages |
Chondrichthyes | class of cartilaginous fish, well-developed jaws |
Osteichthyes | class of bony fish |
Chromatophores | pigment containing or pigment producing cell that color the skin |
Iridocytes | cells that contain iridosomes and scatter light giving a reflective appearance |
Countershading | development of dark colors on body parts exposed to the sun, light colors on shaded parts, used for concealment |
Placoid | platelike scales found on sharks |
Ecotherm | cold blooded |
Endotherm | warm blooded |
Cetaceans | marine mammals with nearly hairless body, flippers, limbs and notched tail |
Baleen | flat flexible plates with frayed edges in two rows used to trap food |
Pinnipedia | aquatic carnivorous mammals with webbed feet |
Sirenians | order of sea cows |
Shunting | act of turning aside or moving on an alternate course |
Lateral line | detects disturbances in the water |
Barbel | tasting and feeling |
Operculum | bony flap, gill cover on fish |
Dorsal Fin | unpaired keel (top of body), keeps fish from rolling |
Pectoral fin | paired, brakes and steering |
Caudal fin | unpaired, propel and maneuver fish |
Pelvic fin | paired, keeps fish horizontal |
Anal fin | unpaired keep, keeps fish from rolling |