PLACOID Meaning and
Definition
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Placoid is an adjective that refers to a specific type of scale found on the skin of certain animals, particularly fish. It is derived from the Latin word "placo," meaning "to flatten." Placoid scales are characterized by their flat, triangular shape with a protruding spine in the center. They are often referred to as "dermal denticles" due to their tooth-like appearance.
These scales are commonly found on cartilaginous fish, such as sharks and rays, and play a significant role in their adaptation for aquatic environments. Placoid scales provide various benefits, including protection against abrasion and reduction of drag in the water due to their streamlined shape. The spine-like denticles help to reduce unwanted turbulence as water flows over the body of the animal, contributing to efficient swimming.
Additionally, placoid scales also enhance the predators' ability to capture and hold prey. The sharp and rough texture created by these scales aids in improving grip and ensuring a firm hold on struggling prey.
Overall, placoid scales serve as a distinctive characteristic of cartilaginous fish, offering both protective and hydrodynamic advantages. Their unique shape and structure contribute to the survival and success of these animals in their aquatic habitats.
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A term applied to an order of fishes characterised by having their skins covered irregularly with plates of enamel, either of considerable size or reduced to small points-this order includes skates, rays, dogfish, and sharks.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for PLACOID
- olacoid
- llacoid
- -lacoid
- 0lacoid
- pkacoid
- ppacoid
- poacoid
- plzcoid
- plscoid
- plwcoid
- plqcoid
- plaxoid
- plavoid
- plafoid
- pladoid
- placlid
- placpid
- plac0id
- placoud
Etymology of PLACOID
The word "placoid" is derived from the Greek word "plax" (πλαξ) meaning "plate" and "eidos" (εἶδος) meaning "form" or "shape". When combined, these Greek roots give "plak-oid", where "oid" serves as a suffix denoting "resembling" or "having the shape of". Therefore, "placoid" is an adjective used to describe something that resembles a plate or has a plate-like shape.
Similar spelling words for PLACOID
- pleased,
- placed,
- placodermi,
- playactor,
- playact,
- placidity,
- plucked,
- placidly,
- placidyl,
- playacting,
- plastid,
- placide,
- placoderm,
- placidness,
- ploceidae,
- placid.
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