Meristics: Difference between revisions
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Ichthyologists follow a basic set of rules when performing a meristic analysis, to remove as much ambiguity as possible. The specific practice, however, may vary depending on the type of fish. The methodolgy for counting meristic traits should be described by the specialist who performs the analysis. |
Ichthyologists follow a basic set of rules when performing a meristic analysis, to remove as much ambiguity as possible. The specific practice, however, may vary depending on the type of fish. The methodolgy for counting meristic traits should be described by the specialist who performs the analysis. |
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==Meristic formula== |
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This a shorthand method of describing the way the bones (rays) of a bony fish's fins are arranged. Since they are inherited they are classification tool very similar to floral formulae in principle. |
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Meristic formula of Siganus luridus (a rabbitfish with venom tipped bones in its fins found in the Eastern Mediterranean) D, XIV+10; A, VII+8-9; P, 16-17; V, I+3+I; GR, 18-22 This means the fish has 14 rays (bones) in the first part of its dorsal fin (D), followed by 10 in a second array. A means the Anal fin,P means Pectoral (fins near the gills and eyes where 'arms' would be), V are the ventral or belly fins (equivalent to 'legs') GR represents the tail fin and the number of rays in the top lobe (18) and the bottom lobe (22). |
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==See also== |
==See also== |
Revision as of 23:15, 26 November 2005
Meristics is an area of ichthyology which relates to counting quantative features of fish, such as the number of fins or scales. A meristic (countable trait) can be used to describe a particular species of fish, or used to identify an unknown species. Meristic traits are often described in a shorthand notation called a meristic formula.
Meristic analysis
A meristic study is an often difficult task, as counting the features of a fish is not as easy as it may appear. Much of meristic analyses are performed on dead fish that have been pickled in alcohol. Meristic traits are less easily observed on living fish, though it is possible. On very small fish, a microscope may be required.
Ichthyologists follow a basic set of rules when performing a meristic analysis, to remove as much ambiguity as possible. The specific practice, however, may vary depending on the type of fish. The methodolgy for counting meristic traits should be described by the specialist who performs the analysis.
Meristic formula
This a shorthand method of describing the way the bones (rays) of a bony fish's fins are arranged. Since they are inherited they are classification tool very similar to floral formulae in principle.
Meristic formula of Siganus luridus (a rabbitfish with venom tipped bones in its fins found in the Eastern Mediterranean) D, XIV+10; A, VII+8-9; P, 16-17; V, I+3+I; GR, 18-22 This means the fish has 14 rays (bones) in the first part of its dorsal fin (D), followed by 10 in a second array. A means the Anal fin,P means Pectoral (fins near the gills and eyes where 'arms' would be), V are the ventral or belly fins (equivalent to 'legs') GR represents the tail fin and the number of rays in the top lobe (18) and the bottom lobe (22).
See also
External link
- practicalfishkeeping.co.uk - Article describing basic meristics