Lepidocybium is a scientific name that refers to a genus of deep-sea fish commonly known as the oilfish or escolar. The word is pronounced /lɛpɪdəˈsaɪbiəm/ with the first two syllables rhyming with "lepidopteran" and the final three syllables pronounced "sigh-bee-um". The spelling of Lepidocybium is derived from Greek roots, with "lepid-" meaning "scale" and "-cybium" meaning "hump" or "curve". The combination of these elements aptly describes the scaly appearance and curved body shape of the oilfish.
Lepidocybium is a genus of fish belonging to the family Gempylidae. It is commonly known as "oilfish" or "escolar." The genus includes two recognized species, Lepidocybium flavobrunneum and Lepidocybium rupestre.
These fish species are primarily found in deep waters of the Atlantic, Indian, and Pacific Oceans. They have elongated bodies and are typically a metallic blue or dark brown in color. They are known for their oily flesh, which gives them the alternative name of "oilfish."
Lepidocybium are highly predatory fish and have sizable mouths filled with sharp teeth. They primarily feed on other fish, crustaceans, and cephalopods. They possess a streamlined body shape that allows them to swiftly chase and capture their prey.
These fish are commercially important and are often sought after for their high-quality meat, which is rich in omega-3 fatty acids. However, it is important to note that Lepidocybium can cause a phenomenon known as "keriorrhea" in humans when consumed in large quantities. Keriorrhea is a temporary gastrointestinal disorder characterized by oily, orange-colored diarrhea. As a result, caution must be exercised when consuming these fish species.
In summary, lepidocybium is a genus of predatory fish known for their oily flesh, elongated bodies, and sharp teeth. They inhabit deep waters and are commercially sought after for their high-quality meat but must be consumed in moderation due to the potential side effects.
The word "lepidocybium" is derived from two components: "lepid-" and "-cybium".
The first part, "lepid-", comes from the Greek word "lepis" (λεπίς), meaning "scale". This element is often used in scientific names to refer to the presence of scales.
The second part, "-cybium", is derived from the Greek word "kybos" (κύβος), meaning "cube". However, the word "cybium" is not found in Greek but is believed to have been formed by blending "cybion", which is derived from "kybos" and means "dart" or "spear", with the Latin suffix "-ium" for a noun form.