Pantodontidae

A Dictionary of Zoology | 1999 | 632 words | Copyright

Pantodontidae (freshwater butterfly fish; superorder Osteoglossomorpha, order Osteoglossiformes) A monospecific family (Pantodon buchholzi) of small, freshwater fish that have a straight dorsal outline, keel-shaped belly, large scales, and a large, obliquely orientated mouth. The species is of interest because of its large, wing-like, pectoral fins, supported by special muscles capable of moving the fins up and down. Kept in aquaria, these fish have been known to jump out of the tank if no cover was provided. In their native W. African rivers they can jump and glide above the water, presumably in pursuit of fast-moving prey.

Cite this article
Pick a style below, and copy the text for your bibliography.

MLA
Chicago
APA

MICHAEL ALLABY. "Pantodontidae." A Dictionary of Zoology. 1999. Encyclopedia.com. 30 May. 2012 <http://www.encyclopedia.com>.

MICHAEL ALLABY. "Pantodontidae." A Dictionary of Zoology. 1999. Encyclopedia.com. (May 30, 2012). http://www.encyclopedia.com/doc/1O8-Pantodontidae.html

MICHAEL ALLABY. "Pantodontidae." A Dictionary of Zoology. 1999. Retrieved May 30, 2012 from Encyclopedia.com: http://www.encyclopedia.com/doc/1O8-Pantodontidae.html

Learn more about citation styles