Glossary

branchiostegal membrane

The membrane, sometimes referred to as the gill membrane, connecting the branchiostegal rays and enclosing the ventral portion of the branchial cavity. Normally extended when the opercle of a fish is open, sealing the branchial cavity and creating a vacuum in the mouth, and also used during threat, courtship and other communicative behaviours in many species.

Used in 5 species profiles

Related terms

branchial cavity
Cavity located inside the mouth and enclosing the gills; also known as 'gill cavity'.
branchiostegal ray
One of the dermal, bony (sometimes cartilaginous), bilaterally paired, flattened struts inserting on the epihyal and/or ceratohyal (sometimes the interhyal and hypohyal) that supports the branchiostegal membranes.
courtship
Any behavioural interaction between male and female individuals which leads to or initiates spawning.
gill
Respiratory organ of fishes and some other aquatic organisms comprising a highly-vascularised membrane or outgrowth.
membrane
Thin, usually flexible layer of tissue covering, lining, separating, or connecting cells or parts of an organism.
opercle
Bone forming the upper, posterior portion of the operculum, sometimes bearing spines or spine-like structures. Normally the largest of the bones comprising the operculum.
ventral
Of, on, or relating to the underside of an animal or plant; abdominal.

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