Cutlips

/ˈkʌtˌlɪps/ noun

Definition

A freshwater fish of the minnow family with a distinctive split or notched upper lip.

Etymology

From 'cut' (to sever or notch) and 'lips,' named directly for the fish's most distinctive physical feature—its split or cut upper lip that looks like it's been divided.

Kelly Says

The cutlips minnow's weird split lip isn't just for looks—that notch helps the fish scrape algae and food off rocks in fast-moving streams, making it a specialized bottom-feeder adapted to its rocky habitat!

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