Cheiropterygium

/ˌkaɪrɑptəˈrɪdʒiəm/ noun

Definition

The fin or limb of an aquatic animal that resembles a hand-like structure with finger-like rays.

Etymology

From Greek χείρ (cheír) 'hand,' πτέρυξ (ptéryx) 'fin,' and the anatomical suffix -ium, meaning 'hand-like fin.'

Kelly Says

Fish fins and mammal limbs share a common ancestor—the hand-like fin structure of fish eventually evolved into hands, feet, and wings in different animal groups, showing deep evolutionary connection.

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