Istiophorus: meaning, definitions and examples
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Istiophorus
[ ˌɪstɪˈɒfərəs ]
marine biology
Istiophorus is a genus of fish that includes species commonly known as marlins, which are characterized by their elongated bodies and long, pointed snouts. These fish are primarily found in warm ocean waters and are renowned for their speed and agility, making them popular among sport fishermen.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The Istiophorus platypterus is known as the Atlantic sailfish.
- Anglers travel to tropical oceans to catch Istiophorus species.
- The Istiophorus species are recognized for their incredible fighting ability when hooked.
Etymology
The name 'Istiophorus' is derived from the Greek words 'istios,' meaning 'sail,' and 'phoros,' meaning 'bearer.' This reflects the distinctive dorsal fin that resembles a sail, characteristic of the species in this genus. The term was first introduced in scientific nomenclature in the late 19th century as ichthyologists began to classify various fish species systematically. Istiophorus includes several notable species such as the sailfish and swordfish, both of which are highly regarded in both commercial and sport fishing. The genus has since been studied extensively, leading to greater understanding of their ecology and behavior.