Gnathobdellida

/ˌɡnæθoʊbdɛˈlaɪ.də/ noun

Definition

The taxonomic order of leeches that possess true jaws.

Etymology

From 'gnatho-' (jaw) plus 'bdella' (leech) with Latin ordinal suffix -ida. Creates a formal biological classification name.

Kelly Says

Gnathobdellida shows how animals get their scientific names by their most important features—these leeches earned their name because jaws are what define them biologically, not where they live or how they move.

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