Hagfish
Hagfish
Hagfish, also known as slime eels, are marine creatures belonging to the class Myxini. They are known for their unique ability to produce a large amount of slime or mucus when disturbed.
Pronunciation
Hagfish: /ˈhæɡˌfɪʃ/
Etymology
The term "hagfish" is derived from the word "hag", which is an old term for witch, and "fish", referring to its eel-like appearance. The name is thought to have originated due to the creature's unusual and somewhat grotesque appearance.
Description
Hagfish are elongated, eel-like creatures that lack jaws, true vertebrae, and paired fins. They have soft, scaleless skin and numerous, small eyes. They are known for their ability to produce a large amount of slime or mucus when disturbed, which they use as a defense mechanism against predators.
Habitat and Distribution
Hagfish are found in cold waters around the world, from shallow coastal waters to depths of up to 1800 meters. They are typically found on the ocean floor, where they feed on dead and dying fish and other marine creatures.
Related Terms
- Myxini: The class to which hagfish belong.
- Slime Eel: Another name for hagfish, referring to their ability to produce slime.
- Marine Biology: The study of organisms in the ocean and other saltwater environments.
- Vertebrate: An animal with a backbone. Hagfish are not considered true vertebrates as they lack a backbone.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Hagfish
- Wikipedia's article - Hagfish
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