Acanthopterygii

/ˌækænθɒptəˈrɪdʒiːaɪ/ noun

Definition

A large superorder of bony fishes characterized by spiny rays in their fins, including most modern fish species.

Etymology

From Greek 'akantha' (thorn) + 'pterygion' (little fin). The suffix '-ii' is the Latin plural masculine ending, used in Linnean taxonomy to name entire groups.

Kelly Says

This single group contains over 30,000 species—more than all mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians combined—making them the dominant vertebrates in aquatic ecosystems worldwide.

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