polypterus
polypterus Lexical Profile
• noun
Any of several primitive, elongated freshwater ray-finned fishes native to African river systems and swamps, characterized by a series of distinct dorsal finlets and paired lungs that allow them to breathe atmospheric air.
"The biology department acquired a polypterus to demonstrate the anatomical adaptations of early fishes capable of breathing atmospheric oxygen."
Word Nuance & Usage
Strictly capitalized and italicized as 'Polypterus' when referring to the formal taxonomic genus, but commonly written in lowercase by aquarium hobbyists referring to individual specimens.
• Rhymes for polypterus
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
From Modern Latin, derived from Greek 'polys' (many) and 'pteron' (wing, fin), in reference to the numerous distinct dorsal finlets along the fish's back.
Usage Trend
Historical frequency of usage in published text.