Pronunciation: [sˈɛlɐt͡ʃˌɪa͡ɪ] (IPA) 
The word "selachii" refers to a taxonomic group that includes sharks, rays, and skates. The spelling of this word is based on its pronunciation, which is /sɪˈlækiː/ in IPA phonetic transcription. The "s" is pronounced as in "sit", the "e" is pronounced as in "bed", the "l" is pronounced as in "love", the "a" is pronounced as in "cat", the "ch" is pronounced as in "chew", and the "ii" is pronounced as a long "ee" sound.
Selachii refers to a taxonomic subclass of cartilaginous fishes, commonly known as sharks. It encompasses a diverse group of predatory marine species found in oceans all around the world. The term "selachii" is derived from the Greek word "selachos," meaning "a kind of fish."
Sharks are characterized by their unique body shape, featuring a streamlined and hydrodynamic design, which allows them to swiftly move through the water. They possess a cartilaginous skeleton, possessing a flexible structure instead of bones, and paired pectoral and pelvic fins that aid in movement and stability. One of their defining traits is the presence of multiple rows of sharp, replaceable teeth, which they use for catching and consuming prey.
Selachii generally have a highly efficient sense of hearing and an acute sense of smell, enabling them to locate their prey even from long distances. They are typically carnivorous and play a vital role in maintaining the balance of marine ecosystems by controlling populations of various prey species.
Furthermore, sharks reproduce through internal fertilization, and most species give birth to live young known as pups. They exhibit a vast range of sizes, with some species growing up to several meters in length.
While certain species of selachii, such as the great white shark and tiger shark, are notorious for their occasional attacks on humans, it is important to note that most sharks are not a significant threat to human life. They are a fascinating group of fish that have captured the curiosity of scientists and the imagination of humans for centuries.
The word "selachii" has its etymology in the scientific classification of sharks. It is derived from the Greek word "selachos" (σέλαχος), which means "cartilaginous fish". In taxonomy, "selachii" is the plural form of the scientific family name "Selachidae" which refers to the sharks. The word "selachos" itself can be traced back to the ancient Greek "selas" (σέλας), meaning "light" or "splendor", likely because of the shiny appearance of shark scales.
