CEPHALASPID Meaning and
Definition
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A cephalaspid refers to any member of the group of ancient, primitive jawless fish belonging to the class Cephalaspidomorphi. Typically found in the fossil record, cephalaspids are characterized by their distinctive features, which include a cartilaginous skeleton, lack of vertebrae, and lack of paired fins. These fish are predominantly known for their armored and shield-like appearance, with their body covered in tough, bony plates, known as dermal armor. The cephalaspid's most distinguishable feature is its unique, rounded head, which is often enclosed within a solid, bucket-shaped structure called a cephalic shield.
Like other jawless fish, cephalaspids are considered to be primitive vertebrates and are believed to have existed during the early Paleozoic era, roughly 500 million years ago. They are usually associated with marine environments and are thought to have a scavenging or filter-feeding lifestyle, primarily feeding on small organisms and detritus.
Due to their interesting anatomical features and their significance in the evolutionary history of vertebrates, cephalaspids have attracted considerable scientific interest and have been extensively studied. Their fossil records also provide valuable information about the early development of vertebrate life forms. Although cephalaspids are no longer extant, their existence has greatly contributed to our understanding of the origins and diversity of jawless fish and the subsequent evolution of more complex vertebrates.
Common Misspellings for CEPHALASPID
- xephalaspid
- vephalaspid
- fephalaspid
- dephalaspid
- cwphalaspid
- csphalaspid
- cdphalaspid
- crphalaspid
- c4phalaspid
- c3phalaspid
- ceohalaspid
- celhalaspid
- ce-halaspid
- ce0halaspid
- cepgalaspid
- cepbalaspid
- cepnalaspid
- cepjalaspid
- cepualaspid
Etymology of CEPHALASPID
The term "cephalaspid" is derived from the combination of two Greek words: "cephal-" meaning "head" and "-aspid" meaning "shield". This term was originally used to refer to a group of primitive jawless fish, which possess a bony shield or armored plates covering their heads.
Similar spelling words for CEPHALASPID
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