HYBODONTS Meaning and
Definition
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Hybodonts are an extinct order of sharks that lived during the Mesozoic era, primarily from the Late Devonian period to the Early Cretaceous period, approximately 360 to 100 million years ago. These sharks were characterized by several distinct features that set them apart from other shark groups.
Hybodonts were known for their heterodont dentition, meaning they had more than one type of tooth. They possessed a combination of crushing and cutting teeth, which allowed them to feed on a variety of smaller fish and invertebrates. These teeth were also replaceable, with new ones growing in as older ones became worn or lost.
In terms of body structure, hybodonts had a streamlined shape and were typically medium-sized sharks, ranging from about one to four meters in length. They had a forked tail fin or caudal fin, which aided in their swimming and maneuverability in the water.
Another distinguishing feature of hybodonts was their fin spines, which were located in front of their dorsal fins. These spines likely served as a defensive mechanism, deterring potential predators or helping them during courtship displays.
Hybodonts were a successful and diverse group of sharks, with many different species inhabiting various marine environments around the world. They played an important role in the ecosystem as mid-level predators, contributing to the balance of marine communities during their time on Earth. Despite their extinction, hybodonts have left a significant fossil record, providing scientists with valuable insights into the evolution and diversity of ancient sharks.
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In geol., a family of fossil shark-like fishes furnished with teeth having knobbed crowns.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for HYBODONTS
- Hybodolts
- Hybodoots
- Hybodon4s
- Hybodonds
- Hybodonps
- Hybodonvs
- Hybodonus
- Hybodont3
- Hybodontc
- Hybodontq
- hybodewnts
- hyboduents
- h ybodonts
- hy bodonts
- hyb odonts
- hybo donts
- hybod onts
- hybodo nts
- hybodon ts
- hybodont s
Etymology of HYBODONTS
The word "Hybodonts" is derived from two Greek words: "hybos", meaning "hump" or "swelling", and "odous", meaning "tooth". These two words are combined to create "hybodonts", which refers to a group of extinct cartilaginous fishes that lived from the Permian period to the Cretaceous period. The name "Hybodonts" is used to describe these fishes due to the distinctive shape and structure of their teeth, which feature crowns that are elevated or hump-like in appearance.
