Cepolidae

/sɪˈpɒlɪdeɪ/ noun

Definition

A family of small marine fish known as ribbonfish or tapeworms fish, characterized by their long, flat bodies.

Etymology

From an older genus or species name Cepo- combined with the Latin family suffix -idae. The origin of 'cepo' itself is unclear, possibly derived from an older Greek or vernacular name.

Kelly Says

Ribbonfish are so bizarre-looking—long, flat, and snake-like—that early naturalists struggled to classify them, and the family name's vague etymology reflects the confusion early ichthyologists had about what these creatures even were.

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