BALEEN Meaning and
Definition
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Baleen refers to a specialized, anatomical structure found in the mouths of certain filter-feeding whales, such as the blue whale, humpback whale, and bowhead whale. It consists of a series of long, flexible plates made of keratin, which is the same material found in human hair and nails.
These baleen plates hang from the upper jaw of the whale, forming a curtain-like structure known as the baleen sieve. The sieve acts as a filter, allowing the whale to efficiently feed on tiny marine organisms, mainly krill and small fish, while effectively straining out the water. The baleen plates are fringed with bristles that help entangle and trap prey.
The process of baleen feeding involves the whale opening its mouth and taking in water along with the organisms it wishes to consume. It then closes its mouth and pushes the water out through the baleen sieve using its large tongue. The baleen plates capture the prey, which is then scraped off and swallowed by the whale.
Baleen is an important adaptation for these whales as it allows them to consume large quantities of prey without the need for active pursuit or precise targeting. It enables efficient filter-feeding, contributing to their ability to sustain themselves on abundant food sources in the ocean. Baleen is a notable characteristic that distinguishes these filter-feeding whales from other species of cetaceans.
Common Misspellings for BALEEN
Etymology of BALEEN
The word "baleen" originated from the Middle English term "baleyn", which can be traced back to the Old English word "baleg(e)n" or "balaun". These Old English terms, in turn, were borrowed from the medieval Latin word "bal(a)ena" meaning "whale". The Latin etymon "bal(a)ena" is believed to have been derived from an earlier source, possibly the Greek word "phalaina" or "phallaina", which also meant "whale". Overall, the etymology of the word "baleen" can be traced through Old English and Latin, ultimately leading back to ancient Greek.
Similar spelling words for BALEEN
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