Heptanchus

/ˌhɛptˈæŋkəs/ noun

Definition

A genus of sharks characterized by seven gill slits, part of the family Hexanchidae.

Etymology

From Greek 'hepta' (seven) + 'anchous' (relating to gills, from 'anchus'). Scientific naming convention using Greek numerals for anatomical features.

Kelly Says

Most sharks have five gill slits, but Heptanchus sharks have seven—they're considered more 'primitive' sharks evolutionarily, with anatomy similar to sharks from 200 million years ago.

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