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poeciliid

poeciliid

9.9
A small fish kept in tanks that gives birth to live young and is often brightly colored
  • noun
  • /poʊˈsɪliɪd/
  • Specialized
translation icon : peces poecílidos
  • Many aquarists keep poeciliids such as guppies and mollies in their home tanks.

Examples

  • Some species of poeciliids are introduced to ponds to help control mosquito populations.

  • The poeciliid family includes popular aquarium fish known for their vibrant colors.

  • The poeciliid swam gracefully in the aquarium.

  • Many poeciliids are known for their vibrant colors.

  • Many aquarists keep poeciliids such as guppies and mollies in their home tanks.

  • Some species of poeciliids are introduced to ponds to help control mosquito populations.

  • The poeciliid family includes popular aquarium fish known for their vibrant colors.

Synonyms

poeciliid fish
vspoeciliid
  • Specialized
9.9

Small bright fish that give birth to live young, like guppies and mollies

is the same family fish but without stressing mosquito control use
live-bearer
vspoeciliid
7.8

A small brightly colored fish that gives birth to young that can swim when born

focuses on family identity rather than just giving birth to live young

Compounds

poeciliid fish
  • Specialized
9.9

Small bright fish that give birth to live young, like guppies and mollies

Surface Forms

poeciliid singular
poeciliids plural

Morphology

poeciliid = Poeciliidae + Poecilia (opaque) = poecili + id

Formed from the scientific stem (poecili-) and a taxonomic suffix; the combining form and suffix are specialized and not transparent to average learners.

Etymology

Poeciliid comes from the Greek word poikilos meaning 'varied' or 'many-coloured' and from the family name Poeciliidae. Many poeciliids, such as guppies and mollies, are small bright fish, so the name helps you remember they are colourful and varied.