Ceratohyal

/ˌsɛrətəʊˈhaɪəl/ adjective

Definition

Relating to a horn-shaped bone in the hyoid apparatus of fish, which is part of the jaw and gill support system.

Etymology

From Greek 'keras' (horn) + 'hyo-' (relating to the hyoid bone, from Sanskrit 'su' meaning good). Used in ichthyology to describe specific skeletal elements in fish anatomy.

Kelly Says

Fish have a completely different jaw structure than you do, with a whole system of small bones called the hyoid apparatus that includes ceratohyal bones—it's why fish can breathe underwater while eating!

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