Hagfish

/ˈhæɡfɪʃ/ noun

Definition

A jawless, eel-like marine fish that lives in deep ocean waters and can produce slime as a defense mechanism.

Etymology

From 'hag' (possibly from Old English meaning 'to hack or cut') combined with 'fish.' The 'hag' may refer to its haglike appearance or ragged fins, or to its aggressive feeding behavior.

Kelly Says

Hagfish are ancient creatures that have remained nearly unchanged for 300 million years—they produce the slimiest substance in nature (stronger and stickier than any industrial adhesive) and can literally tie themselves in a knot to escape predators!

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