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Glite Dictionary
acanthopterygian

acanthopterygian

9.9
A bony fish whose fins are held by sharp, stiff spines
  • noun
  • /əˌkænθəˈtɛrɪdʒən/
  • Specialized
translation icon : acantopterigio
  • Ichthyologists study the unique dorsal fin spines characteristic of acanthopterygian fishes.

Examples

  • In the study of marine biology, an acanthopterygian is often identified by its distinct fin structure and sharp rays.

  • The acanthopterygian lineage includes many familiar marine species found in reefs and open waters.

  • A close examination of the aquarium revealed an exotic acanthopterygian among the other tropical fish.

  • The acanthopterygian fish is known for its unique fin structure.

  • The acanthopterygian family includes popular aquarium fish.

  • The acanthopterygian fish, such as angelfish and snapper, are commonly found in coral reefs.

  • Many sports fishermen target acanthopterygian species for their speed and agility in the water.

Synonyms

spiny-finned fish
vsacanthopterygian
  • Specialized
8.7

A fish with hard, sharp spikes on its fins

includes fish whose fins may be supported by either spines or rays
Acanthopterygii
vsacanthopterygian
  • Specialized
9.9

A group of fish with sharp bony spines in their fins, like many common sea and freshwater fish

refers to individual fish rather than the whole taxonomic group
superorder Acanthopterygii
vsacanthopterygian
  • Specialized
9.9

A large group of fish with bones and sharp spines in their fins, like perch and tuna

covers fish with fins supported by either spines or rays

Surface Forms

acanthopterygian singular
acanthopterygian plural
acanthopterygii plural

Morphology

acanthopterygian = Acanthopterygii (opaque) = acanth + pteryg + ian

Formed from technical Greek combining forms plus the derivational suffix '-ian'; the elements are specialist terms unlikely to be recognized by an average learner.

Etymology

Acanthopterygian comes from Greek parts acanth- meaning 'thorn' or 'spine' (think 'spiny') and pteryg- meaning 'fin' or 'wing'. So it names fish whose fins are held up by sharp, stiff spines.