Amphicondyla

/ˌæmfɪˈkɑndɪlə/ noun

Definition

A group of cartilaginous fish characterized by having a vertebral column with both ends of each vertebra concave.

Etymology

From Greek 'amphi-' (both) + 'kondylos' (knuckle or condyle), referring to double-articulating vertebral structures in these fish.

Kelly Says

This is a paleontological term for ancient sharks and rays with a unique spinal design—their backbones were like a series of perfectly matched sockets, different from the vertebrae design that would eventually dominate vertebrate evolution.

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