STROPHODUS Meaning and
Definition
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Strophodus is a genus of extinct cartilaginous fish belonging to the family Hybodontidae, which lived during the Mesozoic Era. It is primarily characterized by its distinctive dental structure, consisting of flattened teeth with sharp cutting edges, specifically adapted for feeding on mollusks and crustaceans.
The name "strophodus" originated from the Greek words "strophai" meaning to twist or turn and "odous" meaning tooth. This name is attributed to the unique shape and arrangement of its teeth, which resemble a twisted or spiraled pattern. These specialized teeth allowed the strophodus to efficiently capture and consume its prey, enabling it to thrive in its marine habitat.
These hybodont sharks typically reached lengths of around 2 meters and had a streamlined body shape, facilitating their movement through water. They possessed a pair of dorsal fins, a relatively large pectoral fin, and a heterocercal tail, which provided stability and propulsion for swimming.
Fossil remains of strophodus have been found in various locations worldwide, including Europe, North America, and Asia. They are often discovered in marine sediments, suggesting their preference for coastal or shallow marine environments. The study of strophodus fossils provides valuable insights into the diversity and ecological roles of ancient marine ecosystems during the Mesozoic Era.
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In geol., a genus of long, flat, shark-like teeth, having a twisted appearance on the grinding surfaces.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for STROPHODUS
- Strophudus
- atrophodus
- ztrophodus
- xtrophodus
- dtrophodus
- etrophodus
- wtrophodus
- srrophodus
- sfrophodus
- sgrophodus
- syrophodus
- s6rophodus
- s5rophodus
- steophodus
- stdophodus
- stfophodus
- sttophodus
- st5ophodus
- st4ophodus
- striphodus
Etymology of STROPHODUS
The word "strophodus" is derived from two Greek terms: "strophe" (στροφή), meaning "a turning" or "a twisting", and "odous" (ὀδούς), meaning "tooth". The combination of these terms gives "strophodus", which refers to the unique tooth structure found in some extinct shark-like fishes of the family Strophodontidae.
