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Glite Dictionary
family Echeneidae

family Echeneidae

9.8
A group of fish with a suction disk on the head that attach to larger animals like sharks
  • noun
  • /ˈfæmɪli ˌɛkəˈneɪdi/
  • Specialized
translation icon : familia Echeneidae
  • The family Echeneidae includes species that are commonly known as remoras or suckerfish.

Examples

  • Many in the family Echeneidae use their suction disks to attach themselves to sharks or rays.

  • Did you know that the family Echeneidae can attach to sharks?

  • Biologists study the unique adaptations of the family Echeneidae for marine symbiosis.

  • The family Echeneidae includes several species of remoras.

  • The family Echeneidae is known for its ability to attach to larger marine animals using a special suction disk.

  • Many fish in the family Echeneidae, commonly called remoras, are often seen clinging to the sides of sharks.

  • Scientists are fascinated by the feeding behaviors of the family Echeneidae as they utilize their suction disks to stay close to their hosts.

Synonyms

Echeneididae
vsfamily Echeneidae
  • Specialized
9.9

A group of fish with a flat sucking disk on their head that sticks to larger animals or boats

is the same family but uses an alternate scientific name spelling

Surface Forms

family Echeneidae singular
families Echeneidae plural

Morphology

family + Echeneidae

The word 'family' clearly signals a taxonomic grouping, so a learner can infer this refers to a group of organisms. However, 'Echeneidae' is a Latin scientific name with no decomposable or descriptive meaning for a B1 learner, so the specific referent (remoras/suckerfish) cannot be derived without prior knowledge.

Etymology

Family Echeneidae refers to the group of fishes called 'remoras' or 'suckerfish' that have a flat sucking disk on their head which they use to stick to sharks, rays, or boats. Because they cling to larger animals and surfaces, the name shows their habit of 'holding on' rather than swimming alone.