ISOSPONDYLOUS Meaning and
Definition
-
Isospondylous is an adjective that refers to a characteristic found in certain vertebrates, particularly fishes and amphibians, that possess a symmetrical arrangement of vertebrae throughout their spinal column. The word is derived from the Greek terms "isos" meaning equal or identical, and "spondylos" meaning vertebra.
In an isospondylous animal, the vertebrae are similar in size and shape along the entire length of the spine, providing a uniform structure to the backbone. This is in contrast to animals with heterospondylous or asynchronous vertebrae, where there is variation in size and shape along the spine.
The isospondylous condition is notable for its prevalence in certain groups of fishes, such as the gars (Lepisosteidae) and bowfins (Amiidae), as well as amphibians like the salamanders. These animals typically exhibit a more primitive vertebral structure compared to more advanced groups, with each vertebra consisting of a centrum, which is the main body, and a neural arch that protects the spinal cord. This uniformity in the vertebrae allows for flexibility and support throughout the body.
The term "isospondylous" is mainly used in scientific contexts, particularly within the fields of zoology, ichthyology, and herpetology, to describe this specific spinal arrangement in animals. It serves as a useful descriptive term to differentiate animals with symmetrical vertebrae from those with asymmetric or varying spinal structures.
Common Misspellings for ISOSPONDYLOUS
- usospondylous
- jsospondylous
- ksospondylous
- osospondylous
- 9sospondylous
- 8sospondylous
- iaospondylous
- izospondylous
- ixospondylous
- idospondylous
- ieospondylous
- iwospondylous
- isispondylous
- iskspondylous
- islspondylous
- ispspondylous
- is0spondylous
- is9spondylous
- isoapondylous
Etymology of ISOSPONDYLOUS
The word "Isospondylous" is derived from two Greek roots: "isos" meaning "equal" and "spondylos" meaning "vertebra". In combination, "isospondylous" refers to an equal number of vertebrae in different groups or species. This term is commonly used in the context of zoology and paleontology to describe certain groups of animals with a consistent number of vertebrae.
Similar spelling word for ISOSPONDYLOUS
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
