ΜM - one micron; one thousandth of a millimeter; one millionth of a meter
11-KETOTESTOSTERONE (11-KT) - main reproductive hormone produced by male teleosts; important for reproductive function and responsible for secondary reproductive characteristics and behaviours
17Α,20Β-DIHYDROXYPROGESTERONE (MATURATION INDUCING HORMONE, MIH) - hormone synthesised from progesterone by the granulosa cells in the ovarian follicle; involved in final oocyte maturation and acts as a pheromone during spawning
ABORAL - away from the mouth
ABSORPTION EFFICIENCY - the percentage (%) of oxygen transferred from air (or oxygen) to the water
ACANTHOCEPHALAN - non-segmented, long, cylindrical worms with no digestive tract; possess a proboscis armed with hooks made of chitin; also called “thorny-headed worms”
ACANTHOR - an embryonated egg of an acanthocephalan; passed out of the host in the faeces
ACETABULUM - central water-filled cavity or cup of cephalopod suckers. These are surrounded by an outer rim (infundibulum), often flared in incirrate octopuses. These are responsible for suction on muscular expansion
ACID - solution containing a higher number of hydrogen ions (H+) than hydroxyl ions (OH-); a pH less than 7
ACID - solution containing a higher number of hydrogen ions (H+) than hydroxyl ions (OH-); a pH less than 7
ACIDIC - having the properties of an acid
ACIDIC - having the properties of an acid
ACID-SULPHATE - a soil that contains a high level of iron sulphides (FeS2), also called pyrites, which can lower pH of rivers following rain and subsequent run-off
ACID-SULPHATE - a soil that contains a high level of iron sulphides (FeS2), also called pyrites, which can lower pH of rivers following rain and subsequent run-off
ACROPORID SERRATIOSIS - also called White Pox Disease has been associated with a motile gram negative rod Serratia marcescens in Elkhorn Corals (Acropora palmata)
ACTINIC LIGHTING - lighting that stimulates photosynthesis needed by the zooxanthellae in corals. Peak output is in the 420nm range and is blue-violet in colour
ACTIVATED CARBON (AC) - form of charcoal that is made from plant (cellulose) based material or occasionally animal bones
ADAPTIVE IMMUNE SYSTEM - reacts more slowly to pathogen exposure, with the production of antibodies. Memory is involved with pathogen recognition for future exposures
ADELPHOTROPHY - eating of siblings in utero or uterine cannibalism
ADENOSINE TRIPHOSPHATE (ATP) - an organic compound that provides the energy to drive many processes in living cells e.g. muscle contraction, nerve impulse propagation, chemical synthesis
ADRENAL GLANDS - paired glands, located cranial and medial to the cranial lobe of the kidneys; produce and secrete corticosteroid hormones and adrenaline
ADSORBATE - the surface of an atom, ion or molecule onto which adsorption occurs
ADSORPTION - the binding or adhesion of an adsorbate (atoms, ions or molecules) to a surface compound
AERATION - the addition of air or oxygen to water
AEROBIC - a process or reaction that depends on the presence of, and uses, oxygen
AEROBIC - living or occurring only in the presence of oxygen
AEROBIC - a process or reaction that depends on the presence of, and uses, oxygen
AEROBIC - living or occurring only in the presence of oxygen
AEROBIC - living or occurring only in the presence of oxygen
AEROBIC - dependent on oxygen; most bacteria are aerobic (need air to grow)
AEROBIC - refers to bacteria that need air (oxygen) to grow
AFFERENT - going towards an organ or tissue, usually refers to either blood vessels or nerves
AFFERENT - going towards an organ or tissue, usually refers to either blood vessels or nerves
AGGRESSINS - factors produced by bacteria in a biofilter that prevent new bacteria from becoming established adding to the stability of the system
AGRANULAR - abscence of granules within the cytoplasm
AHERMATYPIC - corals where the skeleton does not contribute to building reef structures
ALBUMEN / ALBUMIN - a water-soluble protein found in many animal tissues and fluids, the white of an egg
ALGICIDE - a substance or chemical that is poisonous to algae and used for killing, or controlling, algal growth
ALGICIDE - refers to an agent or treatment that kills algae
ALGICIDE - a substance or chemical that is poisonous to algae and used for killing, or controlling, algal growth
ALKALINE - solution containing a higher number of hydroxyl ions (OH-) than hydrogen ions (H+); a pH greater than 7
ALKALINE - solution containing a higher number of hydroxyl ions (OH-) than hydrogen ions (H+); a pH greater than 7
ALKALINITY - the buffering capacity of a solution which is mainly the carbonate (CO3^2-) and bicarbonate (HCO3^-) content of the water. It is the capacity to neutralise acids, which acts to stabilise the pH of the water
ALKALINITY - the buffering capacity of a solution which is mainly the carbonate (CO32-) and bicarbonate (HCO3-) content of the water. It is the capacity to neutralise acids, which acts to stabilise the pH of the water
ALKALOSIS - refers to a state where the body fluids have an excess of bases (alkali) – usually too much bicarbonate (HCO3-)
ALKALOSIS - refers to a state where the body fluids have an excess of bases (alkali) -- usually too much bicarbonate (HCO3^-)
ALLOPREENING - preening behaviour when one bird preens another bird
ALTRICIAL - refers to chicks that are incapable of feeding themselves or moving around at birth; often born with no feathers or a fine down and with their eyes closed
ALTRICIAL - refers to chicks that are incapable of feeding themselves or moving around at birth; often born with no feathers or a fine down and with their eyes closed
AMINO ACID - the building blocks of proteins; small molecules with a central carbon atom, a hydrogen atom, a carboxyl group (COOH), an amine group (NH2) and an R group
AMINO ACID - the building blocks of proteins; small molecules with a central carbon atom, a hydrogen atom, a carboxyl group (COOH), an amine group (NH2) and an R group
AMINO ACIDS - the building blocks of proteins
AMMONIA - a nitrogenous waste (NH3) which is undissociated or non-ionised or free
AMMONIA - a nitrogenous waste (NH3) which is undissociated or non-ionised or free
AMMONIA - a nitrogenous waste (NH3) which is undissociated or non-ionised or free
AMMONIUM ION - the dissociated or ionised or bound form of ammonia = NH4+
AMMONIUM ION - the dissociated or ionised or bound form of ammonia = NH4+
AMMONIUM ION - the dissociated or ionised or bound form of ammonia = NH4+
AMMONOTELIC - describes and organism that produces ammonia as the end stage of protein metabolism
AMMONOTELIC - an organism that excretes soluble ammonia, which is highly toxic to tissues and very soluble in water
AMNIOTIC FLUID - clear fluid that bathes the developing embroy within the amniotic sac
AMPERE - is the electrical unit for flow or current. The symbol for ampere is A. One ampere (amp) is the flow rate of 6.28 electrons x 1018 per second
ANABOLISM OR ANABOLIC STATE - the state of constructing molecules from smaller units; manufacturing tissue
ANADROMOUS - species that spend most of their lives in the ocean but migrate to freshwater to spawn; salmonids, sturgeons (Acipenser spp.), and striped bass (Marone spp.) are some of the best-known examples of an anadromous life history
ANADROMOUS - fish that swim up streams (freshwater) from the sea to complete their life cycle, reproduce and then die; includes various members of the Salmonidae family
ANADROMOUS - fish that swim up streams (freshwater) from the sea to complete their life cycle, reproduce and then die; includes various members of the Salmonidae family
ANAEMIA - a decrease in red blood cell numbers or haemoglobin within the red blood cells
ANAEROBIC - refers to bacteria that do not need air (oxygen) to grow and which can even die if oxygen is present
ANAEROBIC - a process or reaction that cannot occur in the presence of oxygen
ANAEROBIC - will not grow when oxygen is present (in fact will die)
ANAEROBIC - a process or reaction that cannot occur in the presence of oxygen
ANAEROBIC - living or occurring only in the absence of oxygen
ANAEROBIC - a process or reaction that cannot occur in the presence of oxygen
ANAEROBIC - a process or reaction that cannot occur in the presence of oxygen
ANCHOR WORMS - copepods of the family Lernaeidae which include the genus Lernaea
ANDROGENESIS - production of offspring from chromosomes derived solely from the male (paternal) gemetes
ANDROGENS - group of hormones that includes testosterone and 11-ketotestosterone typically associated with male reproductive function
ANDROGENS - group of hormones that includes testosterone and 11-ketotestosterone typically associated with male reproductive function
ANGUILLIDAE - refers to the group of freshwater eels
ANGUILLIDAE - refers to the group of freshwater eels
ANIMAL POLE - the side of the oocyte that contains the micropyle and blastodisc; where fertilization and the early stages of embryo development occur; located on the opposite side of the oocyte to the vegetative pole that contains the yolk
ANION - an ion with a negative charge due to an excess of electrons
ANION - an ion with a negative charge due to an excess of electrons
ANION - an ion with a negative charge due to an excess of electrons
ANION - an ion with a negative charge due to an excess of electrons
ANOREXIA - loss of, or lack of, appetite for food
ANOREXIA - decreased or complete loss of interest in food (appetite)
ANOXIA - an absence of oxygen supply to tissues
ANOXIA - an absence of oxygen supply to tissues
ANTERIOR - towards the front or head of the body; cranial
ANTERIOR - towards the front or head end of the body
ANTERIOR - towards the front or head of the body; same as cranial
ANTHELMINTIC - medication given to treat helminth worms
ANTHELMINTIC - medication given to treat helminth worms
ANTHOSTELE - the thickened coenenchyma around the base of polyps in some species of octocorals
ANTHOZOA - class within the Phylum Cnidaria; includes sea anemones, stony corals, soft corals and gorgonians
ANTHOZOANS - class of marine invertebrates including sea anemones, corals (soft and stony) and gorgonians
ANTHROZOONOSIS (ANTHROPROZOONOSIS) - a disease that can be transmitted to animals from humans
ANTIBODY - proteins which are an important part of the immune system; immunoglobulins
ANTIBODY (ANTIBODIES) - proteins which are an important part of the adaptive immune system, immunoglobulins
ANTIGEN - antibody-generating; a substance that stimulates the immune system to produce antibodies
ANTIGEN - antibody-generating; a substance that stimulates the immune system to produce antibodies.
ANTIGENIC - having the properties of an antigen - a substance that is foreign to the body and causes an immune response resulting in the production of antibodies
ANTIGENIC - stimulation of the immune system to produce antibodies
ANTIPATHIN PROTEIN - structural fibrous proteins found in the skeleton of antipatharian corals
APICOMPLEXAN - large group of protozoans that are parasitic in animals, in particular the bloodstream
AQUASCAPING - underwater landscaping using plants, rocks and wood
ARAGONITE - One of the three most common naturally occurring crystal forms of calcium carbonate (CaCO3)
ARAGONITE - form of calcium carbonate (CaCO3) that comprises 90% of the skeleton of corals
ARAGONITE - form of calcium carbonate (CaCO3) that comprises 90% of the skeleton of corals
ARAGONITE - a form of calcium carbonate
ARMS - the recommended term for the circumoral appendages of coleoid cephalopods. Arms are typically designated by numbers or roman numerals, starting with 1 or I as the dorsal arm. They can also be designated using letters and numbers to show which side of the body the arm is on. For example R1 and L1 would be the dorsal right and left arms. Typically speaking ceoleoids have eighth arms
ARTEMIA - also known as brine shrimp; aquatic crustaceans that are hatched from cysts, which can be stored dry for many years then rehydrated and hatched as required
ARTEMIA NAUPLII - newly hatched Artemia; typically around 0.4 – 0.5 mm in size
ARTERY - blood vessels that carry blood from the heart to organs. They have a thicker, elastic wall due to higher blood pressure
ARTHROPOD - member of the phylum Arthropoda – invertebrates that include insects, spiders, mites etc.
ARTIFICIAL FERTILIZATION - mixing of eggs and sperm to achieve fertilization without direct male and female interaction; generally performed by combining sperm and eggs together in a container and then transferring the fertilized eggs to an incubation system
ASCITES - accumulation of fluid in the abdomen/coelom causing swelling
ASCITES - accumulation of fluid in the abdominal (or coelomic) cavity that causes distension (often called dropsy)
ASPERGILLOMA - a fungus ball or mycetoma composed of Aspergillus hyphae combined with cellular debris and mucus
ASYMPTOMATIC - not displaying any clinical signs
ATAXIA - an abnormal, unsteady or unco-ordinated gait
ATAXIA - impaired balance or loss of control of body movements (usually due to brain, spinal cord, nerve, muscle issues)
ATOM - the basic unit of all matter. An atom is electrically neutral (i.e. same number of positive and negative components).
ATOM - the basic unit of all matter. An atom is electrically neutral (i.e. same number of positive and negative components)
ATOM - the basic unit of all matter. An atom is electrically neutral (i.e. same number of positive and negative components)
ATOMIC MASS - the average atomic mass. It is expressed as atomic mass units (amu). One 1 amu is equal to 1/12 the mass of one atom of carbon-12. The average atomic weight takes in to account the different isotopes of an element
ATOMIC WEIGHT - the average atomic mass. It is expressed as atomic mass units (amu). One 1 amu is equal to 1/12 the mass of one atom of carbon-12. The average atomic weight takes in to account the different isotopes of an element
ATOMIC WEIGHT - the average atomic mass. It is expressed as atomic mass units (amu). One 1 amu is equal to 1/12 the mass of one atom of carbon-12
ATROPHY - degeneration or wasting away of a body tissue or an organ
ATROPHY(IES) - refers to cellular degeneration within a body tissue or organ, causing a decrease in size or wasting away of the tissue or organ
AUTOLYSIS - Tissue changes that occur after death (will be slowed down by placing the body in a refrigerator)
AUTOLYSIS - self-digestion; the degradation of cells and tissues that occurs after death
AUTOLYSIS - self-digestion; the degradation of cells and tissues that occurs after death
AUTOLYSIS - self-digestion; the degradation of cells and tissues that occurs after death
AUTONOMIC NERVOUS SYSTEM - part of the nervous system that regulates the organs that are not under voluntary control such as the gastro-intestinal system and cardio-vascular system
AUTONOMIC NERVOUS SYSTEM - part of the nervous system that regulates the organs that are not under voluntary control, e.g. gastro-intestinal system, cardio-vascular system
AUTOTOMY - the casting off, of an appendage as a threat response (like lizards with their tail)
AUTOTOMY - the casting off, of an arm as a threat response (like lizards with their tail)
AUTOTROPHIC - refers to the ability of an organism, or organisms in symbiosis, to produce all their energy from inorganic substances
AUTOTROPHIC - refers to an organism capable of forming nutritional organic substances from inorganic substances such as carbon dioxide
AUTOTROPHIC - refers to organisms that use an inorganic carbon source
AUTOTROPHIC - cellular carbon obtained from inorganic sources such as carbon dioxide (CO2)
AUTOTROPHIC BACTERIA - cellular carbon is obtained from inorganic sources such as carbon dioxide (CO2)
AUTOTROPHIC BACTERIA - cellular carbon is obtained from inorganic sources such as carbon dioxide (CO2)
AUTOTROPHIC BACTERIA - bacteria where the cellular carbon is obtained from inorganic sources such as carbon dioxide (CO2)
AUTOTROPHIC BACTERIA - cellular carbon is obtained from inorganic sources such as carbon dioxide (CO2)
AXON - nerve fibres; long thin extensions of nerve cells that transmit the electrical impulses
AZOOXANTHELLATES - corals that lack zooxanthellae and rely on their ability to capture phytoplankton and zooplankton, and absorb nutrients from the water
BACTERAEMIA - refers to the presence of viable bacteria in the bloodstream, whether associated with active disease or not
BACTERIOCIDAL - refers to an agent or treatment that kills bacteria
BACTERIOCIDAL - refers to an agent or treatment that kills bacteria
BACTERIOSTATIC - refers to an agent or treatment that restricts the ability of bacteria to multiply and grow
BACTERIOSTATIC - inhibits the growth of bacteria
BACTERIOSTATIC - refers to an agent or treatment that restricts the ability of bacteria to multiply and grow
BALLOTTEMENT - a palpatory technique for detecting or examining an organ not near the surface of the body
BAROMETRIC PRESSURE - also called atmospheric pressure; the pressure exerted by the atmosphere (i.e. gases) at the surface of the earth; at sea level pressure is one atmosphere
BAROMETRIC PRESSURE - also called atmospheric pressure; the pressure exerted by the atmosphere (i.e. gases) at the surface of the earth; at sea level pressure is one atmosphere
BASE - solution containing a higher number of hydroxyl ions (OH-) than hydrogen ions (H+); a pH greater than 7; same as alkaline
BASIC - having the properties of a base
BATOIDS - skates and rays; have a dorsoventrally flattened body and their pectoral fins have become enlarged and round (wings)
BEHAVIOURAL ENRICHMENT - an animal husbandry principle that seeks to enhance the quality of captive animal care by identifying and providing the environmental stimuli necessary for optimal psychological and physiological well-being; also called environmental enrichment
BEHAVIOURAL RESPONSE - change in behaviour in response to a signal from the environment or other members of the species, especially the opposite sex
BENTHIC - refers to organisms that reside on the bottom of the sea or a lake
BENTHIC SPAWNER - species that deposit their eggs and sperm close to the substrate for fertilization; includes both egg scatterers and egg depositors
BENTHOS - the bottom region of the sea or refers to the organisms living in that zone i.e. bottom-dwelling organisms
BETA-GLUCANS (Β-GLUCANS) - a group of polysaccharides made up of glucose molecules linked by β-glycosidic bonds
BEZEL - the raised edge of a watch that holds the watch face in place; the round, sometimes raised edge or casing surrounding a sea jelly tank
BINARY FISSION - one cell divides into two, producing two identical cloned cells
BINARY FISSION - occurs when one cell divides or splits into two, producing two identical cloned cells; a form of asexual reproduction
BINARY FISSION - the method by which bacteria reproduce. The circular DNA molecule is replicated; then the cell splits into two identical cells, each containing an exact copy of the original cell's DNA
BIOAVAILABILITY - the amount of a substance the becomes available to the animal and reaches the systemic circulation
BIOFILM - Bacteria which are obligate aerobes, non-motile and colonise surfaces especially the media inside the biofilter. The bacteria form aggregates which are sticky
BIOFILTER (OR BIOLOGIC FILTER) - the site where nitrification occurs using bacteria and oxygen
BIOFOULING - when biological organisms (typically unwanted) recruit on a surface
BIOLOAD - refers to the demand placed on the system by fish, their waste and also uneaten food; specifically refers to the nitrogen load and its processing by bacteria in filters
BIOLOAD - refers to the demand placed on the system by fish, their waste and also uneaten food; specifically refers to the nitrogen load and its processing by bacteria in filters
BIOLOAD - refers to the demand placed on the system by fish, their waste and also uneaten food; specifically refers to the nitrogen load and its processing by bacteria in filters
BIOLOGIC OXYGEN DEMAND (BOD) - refers to the amount of oxygen needed for aerobic microorganisms to function in organic-rich water such as sewage or ponds
BIOLUMINESCENCE - the production of light by living organisms. The light is produced through chemical reactions that are located in complex organs called photophores or light organs. Vampire squid can release bioluminescent particles in thick mucus when threatened
BIOSECURITY - the precautions taken to minimise the risk of introducing an infectious disease into an animal population. It usually refers to existing animals in a facility or display
BIOSECURITY - precautions taken to minimise the risk of introducing an infectious disease into an animal population
BIOTOPE - an area with uniform environmental conditions and the animal and plant life it contains
BIOTOPE - a small habitat or ecosystem; refers to a group of animals and plants that occurs in a certain set of environmental conditions
BIOTOPE - a small habitat or ecosystem; refers to a group of animals and plants that occurs in a certain set of environmental conditions
BLACK BAND DISEASE (BBD) - a coral disease which manifests as a dark band at the interface of live tissue and bare skeleton; identification of the BBD pathogen is still the subject of ongoing investigation; and a number of different bacteria, protozoans, and fungus can be found within the black band
BLASTODERM - single layer of embryonic epithelial tissue that develops on the surface of the egg yolk
BLASTODISC - thin region of cytoplasm located at the animal pole of the oocyte that contains the nucleus and is the site of fertilization
BLASTULA - stage of development when the embryo contains 128-cells and the blastodisc begins to resemble a ball of cells
BLOCK TO POLYSPERMY - process that occurs in the oocyte in response to sperm-egg fusion to prevent multiple sperm (and therefore multiple sets of chromosomes) from entering the egg and affecting the viability of the embryo
BLOOD-TESTIS BARRIER - physical barrier created by the close association of sertoli cells in the spermatocyst to separate the developing sperm cells from the blood and interstitial tissues of the testes
BRANCHIAL - refers to the gills
BRANCHIAL - refers to the gills
BRANCHIAL HEART(S) - accessory heart(s) that pump blood to the gills
BRANCHITIS - inflammation of the gills
BRANCHITIS - inflammation of the gills
BRANCHITIS - damage or inflammation of the gills (branch- refers to gills)
BRANCHITIS - inflammation of the gills
BRITISH THERMAL UNIT (BTU) - traditional unit of energy; the amount of energy needed to heat or cool one pound of water by one degree Fahrenheit
BROADCAST SPAWNER - species that release sperm and eggs into the water column for fertilization and do not provide brood care; includes both pelagic spawners and benthic spawners
BROOD CARE - care and protection of eggs, embryos, or larvae by one or both parents
BROODPATCH - specialised region on the tail of male seadragons where eggs are attached for incubation
BROODPOUCH - partly or completely enclosed pouch structure on the abdomen of male seahorses in which eggs are incubated
BROODSTOCK - sexually mature adult animals selected for breeding purposes
BROWN BAND DISEASE (BRB) - causative agent of BrB is suspected to be a ciliate belonging to the class of Oligohymenophorea, subclass Scuticociliatia
BROWN JELLY SYNDROME (BJS) - described disease in aquariums that has not yet been described in the wild; BJS is characterized by tissue death associated with widespread visible swelling and necrosis of tissues and mucous production resulting in the appearance of brown jelly on the affected portion of the coral
BUCCAL - refers to the oral cavity or mouth
BUCCAL - relating to the mouth
BUCCAL - refers to the oral cavity or mouth
BUMBLE FOOT - a serious bacterial infection of the ventral surface of the foot of many birds, particularly common in chickens, raptors, penguins and other aquatic birds
BUMBLE FOOT - a serious bacterial infection of the ventral surface of the foot of many birds, particularly common in chickens, raptors, penguins and other aquatic birds
BUND - raised floor area designed to contain spilt or escaped liquid
CALAMUS - the conical projection at the base of the ligula at the distal tip of the hectocotylized arm. Found at the distal terminus of the spermatophore groove
CALCIFICATION - process by which corals take up calcium from seawater and form aragonite or calcite as the building blocks for the calcium carbonate-based skeleton
CALICE (PLURAL CALICES) - in stony corals the visible and often raised portion of the corallite. The term calice may be used interchangeably with calyx
CALICOBLASTIC EPITHELIAL CELLS - specialized epithelial cells located on the lower epidermal layer adjacent to the underlying skeleton responsible for calcification
CALYX - the crown or base of the polyp
CALYX (PLURAL CALYCES) - the thickened coenencyhyma lining the inner surface of the corallite which the polyps sit in. The term calyx may be used interchangeably with calice
CANALS - anastomoses, passages or cavities that form an intricate network, diverging and branching within the gastroderm
CAPILLARY - smallest blood vessels that are the site of gas and nutrient exchange in tissues
CARAPACE - single piece of the exoskeleton, which covers the cephalothorax
CARBOHYDRASES - a group of enzymes that act on carbohydrates
CARBOHYDRATES - molecules made up of Carbon, Hydrogen and Oxygen; always in the ratio of 1:2:1
CARBOHYDRATES - molecules made up of Carbon, Hydrogen and Oxygen; always in the ratio of 1:2:1
CARBON FIXATION - the incorporation of carbon into organic compounds; predominantly performed by phytoplankton
CARBONATE HARDNESS - is derived from calcium carbonate (CaCO3) and calcium bicarbonate (Ca(HCO3)2); can be removed from water by boiling (forming a scale in the pot)
CARBONATE HARDNESS - is derived from calcium carbonate (CaCO3) and calcium bicarbonate (Ca(HCO3)2); can be removed from water by boiling (forming a scale in the pot)
CARCINOGENIC - a substance that causes cancer
CARDIAC - refers to the heart
CARDIAC OUTPUT - the volume of blood pumped in one minute. Equals the stroke volume multiplied by the heart rate
CARNIVORE - flesh (or meat) eating animal
CARNIVOROUS - refers to a meat-eating animal
CAROTENOIDS - pigments produced by plants which range from yellow to red in colour; some of which have a Vitamin A-like activity
CAROTENOIDS - pigments produced by plants which range from yellow to red in colour; some of which have a Vitamin A-like activity
CAROTENOIDS - class of red and yellow pigments produced primarily by phytoplankton and plants that are required in crustacean diets and cannot be synthesized
CAROTENOIDS - class of red and yellow pigments produced primarily by phytoplankton and plants that are required in fish diets and cannot be synthesised
CATABOLIC STATE - opposite of anabolic state; occurs when there is a shortage of amino acids and protein degradation occurs faster than protein synthesis leading to weight loss
CATADROMOUS - refers to fish that move from freshwater to the sea to mature and reproduce
CATADROMOUS - species that spend most of their lives in freshwater and migrate to the ocean to spawn (opposite of anadromous)
CATADROMOUS - refers to fish that move from freshwater to the sea to mature and reproduce
CATALYSIS - the acceleration of a chemical reaction usually by a catalyst
CATASTROPHIC MOULT - moult whereby all the feathers are lost at once, over a two-to-four-week period
CATASTROPHIC MOULT - moult whereby all the feathers are lost at once, over a period two-to-four week
CATECHOLAMINES - chemical transmitters derived from the amino acid tyrosine that are involved in hormonal signalling in the body; examples include dopamine and adrenaline (epinephrine)
CATION - an ion with a positive charge due to an excess of protons
CATION - an ion with a positive charge due to an excess of protons
CATION - an ion with a positive charge due to an excess of protons
CATION - an ion with a positive charge due to an excess of protons
CAUDAL - towards the rear or tail end of the body; posterior
CAUDAL - towards the rear or tail end of the body; posterior
CAUDAL - towards the rear or tail end of the body; same as posterior
CAUDAL - towards the rear or tail end of the body; posterior
CAUDAL - towards the rear or tail end of the body; posterior
CAVITATION - occurs in pumps, when a drop in pressure causes vaporization and the development of bubbles which can implode, causing mini-explosions
CCTV - Closed Circuit Television
CCTV - Closed Circuit Television
CELL - the smallest unit of an organ or organism; consists of a nucleus surrounded by cytoplasm and a semi-permeable membrane
CELL MEMBRANE - the outside layer or wall of the cell
CELL-MEDIATED IMMUNITY - an immune response not involving antibody development
CELLULITIS - inflammation of the sub-cutaneous tissue (usually an infection)
CENTRAL NERVOUS SYSTEM - the brain and spinal cord
CEPHALOTHORAX - the combined head and thorax areas of crustaceans
CERIANTHIDS - tube-dwelling anemones
CESTODE - also called tapeworms; parasitic flatworms that are segmented
CESTODES - members of the Phylum Platyhelminthes; segmented flat worms, also called tapeworms
CESTODES - members of the Phylum Platyhelminthes; segmented flat worms, also called tapeworms
CHALAZAE - commence at each pole of yolk; they are twisted, viscous sections of the albumen which anchor the egg yolk firmly within the egg
CHARACINS - family Characidae, group of small carnivorous freshwater cyprinids
CHELAE - the claws of a crab, which are the first pair of the five pairs of walking legs
CHELATE - a compound containing a ligand, typically an organic molecule, bonded to a central metal atom at two or more points
CHELATED - bound by a chelating agent
CHELATED - bound by a chelating agent
CHELATED - bound by a chelating agent
CHELATING AGENT - a substance that forms a complex ion with metal ions in solution
CHELATING AGENT - a substance that forms a complex ion with metal ions in solution e.g. EDTA
CHELATING AGENT - a substance that forms a complex ion with metal ions in solution e.g. EDTA
CHELATION - the process that involves the formation of bonds between a multiple-bonded ligand and a central atom (usually a metal)
CHELIPODS - the big claws in crayfish and lobsters, which are the first pair of the five walking legs
CHEMICAL REACTION - occurs when one or more ions, molecules or compounds are changed to another substance. The reactions are usually reversible and they are effectively balanced i.e. the same number of atoms must be on one side of the reaction (equation) as the other
CHEMICAL REACTION - occurs when one or more ions, molecules or compounds are changed to another substance. The reactions are usually reversible and they are effectively balanced
CHEMOATTRACTANT - chemicals that provide a stimulus to an organism or cell (e.g. sperm) that causes the target to move towards the source of the stimulus
CHEMOTACTILE - the sensory ability for cephalopods to “taste” directly through touch
CHITIN - a polysaccharide (many sugars), comprised of a long chain polymer of N-acetylglucosamine (glucose derivative); present in the exoskeleton of insects and shell of crustaceans
CHITIN - fibrous substance consisting of polysaccharides making up the primary component of cell walls in fungi, exoskeletons of arthropods, and also found in antipatharian coral skeletons
CHITIN - a polymer of glucose molecules; present in the wall of fungus and exoskeleton of crustaceans and insects
CHITIN - polysaccharide (many sugars), comprising a long chain polymer made up of a glucose derivative, present in the exoskeleton of insects, shells of crustaceans and walls of Fungi
CHITIN - a polysaccharide (many sugars), comprised of a long chain polymer of N-acetylglucosamine (glucose derivative); present in the exoskeleton of insects and shell of crustaceans
CHITIN(OUS) - a polysaccharide substance that makes up cephalopod beaks, sucker rings, hooks, and stylets
CHITINASE - digestive enzyme that will break down chitin
CHITINOUS - made of chitin
CHLORAMINE - an inorganic compound with the formula NH2Cl; colourless liquid at room temperature and frequently added to municipal drinking water supplies as a disinfectant
CHLORAMINES - an inorganic compound with the formula NH2Cl; colourless liquid at room temperature; frequently added to municipal drinking water supplies as a disinfectant
CHLORAMINES - an inorganic compound with the formula NH2Cl; colourless liquid at room temperature; frequently added to municipal drinking water supplies as a disinfectant
CHLORIDE CELLS - the main cells in the gills involved in the exchange of salts; there are more chloride cells in marine fish gills than freshwater fish gills
CHLORIDE CELLS - the main cells in the gills involved in the exchange of salts; there are more chloride cells in marine fish gills than freshwater fish gills
CHLOROPHYLL - green pigment in plants which absorbs red and blue light
CHLOROPHYLL - pigment that absorbs light and converts this energy source to useable chemical energy through photosynthesis
CHLOROPLASTS - an organelle in plant cells which is the site of photosynthesis
CHOANA - longitudinal opening (split) in the roof of the bird’s mouth that connects with the nasla cavity
CHONDRICHTHYAN - of a class of fish (Chondrichthyes) that possess a skeleton of cartilage
CHORION - the hardened vitelline membrane formed when the oocyte contacts water (i.e. water hardening)
CHROMATOPHORE - cell in the dermis layer of the skin that contains coloured pigment granules
CHROMOSOMAL - system of sex determination in which specific chromosomes called sex chromosomes carry the genetic information to determine the sex of an individual; males and females possess different combinations of sex chromosomes
CILIA - small hair-like structures, which beat synchronously and cause movement in a reasonably smooth manner
CILIATE - a group of protozoans possessing cilia
CILIOPHORAN - a sub-group of ciliates
CILIUM (PLURAL CILIA) - short, microscopic hair-like structures that vibrate; found in large numbers on the surface of some cells and produce currents in the surrounding fluid; organ of propulsion in some protozoa
CIRRI - elongated finger-like projections possessed by cirrate octopuses and vampire squid, occuring along the lateral edges of each sucker row
CLADE - classification of zooxanthella based on nuclear ribosomal DNA (rDNA) and partial chloroplast large subunit rDNA sequence variation
CLINICAL DISEASE - recognizable clinical signs or symptoms (more of a human term); an obviously sick fish
CNIDARIA - Phylum which includes sea jellies, corals, anemones, sea pens, and Hydrozoa
CNIDOCIL - a hairlike sensory process projecting from the surface of a cnidoblast, believed to trigger the discharge of the nematocyst
CNIDOCYSTS (OR CNIDAE) - specialized cell organelles made of a capsule and projectile tubule
CNIDOCYTES - specialized cells used by Cnidarians to capture prey (also called nematocysts)
COAGULATION - the process of blood clotting
COAGULATION - clotting or congealing; as in blood clotting
COAGULOPATHY - problem with clotting mechanism, usually causing prolonged clotting time and increased blood loss
COCCIDIOCIDAL - the intermediate stage of an acanthocephalan, which encysts in the liver or mesentery
COELENTERON - the gastrovascular cavity of a coral which functions include digestion and the circulation of fluids for respiration and nutrition
COENENCHYMA - a common tissue shared by polyps of colonial corals which covers the skeleton between each polyp
COENOSTEUM - a series of structural plates which join individual corallites of colonial corals
COLLAGEN - fibrous protein found in bone, cartilage and connective tissue; becomes gelatin when boiled.
COLLAGENOUS - tissue consisting of collagen
COLONIAL CORAL - many individual polys share a common skeleton
COLORIMETER - an instrument that measures the intensity of light of a certain wavelength that passes through a solution. The intensity of light then provides a method for measuring the concentration of a substance in the solution
COLUMELLA - a tangled mass of intertwined septa within the tube of the corallite
COMMENSAL - an organism that will either live on, or within a host, and benefits from the relationship, but will neither harm nor benefit the host organism
COMPLEMENT SYSTEM - comprised of a large number of plasma proteins that react together to induce an inflammatory response to help fight infections
CONDUCTIVITY - a measure of the total ionic charge in the water
CONDUCTIVITY METER - a meter that measures conductivity
CONJUNCTIVITIS - inflammation of the conjunctiva of the eye
CONSPECIFIC - an organism of the same species
CONTOUR FEATHERS - feathers that cover the bird’s body
COPRODEUM - most cranial of the three divisions of the cloaca; a continuation of the rectum
CORAL REEF SPAWNERS - species that spawn in coral reef habitats, often in response to lunar cycles
CORALLITE - the basic skeletal structure of a single polyp
CORNEA - the outer layer or surface of the eye
CORPORA LUTEA - plural of corpus luteum; a hormone-secreting structure that develops in the ovary after an egg(s) had been ovulated
CORTICOSTEROIDS - steroid hormones produced by the interrenal glands (located at the anterior end of the kidney) in fish and associated with the stress response
COSTAE - vertical partitions which continue outside the wall of the corallite
COUNTER-CURRENT MECHANISM - a current that flows in an opposite direction to the flow of another current and usually involves the transfer of heat (as in blood vessels) or oxygen (as in the gills)
COVALENT CHEMICAL BOND - a chemical bond in which two electrons are shared by two atoms
COVERT FEATHERS - feathers that are on the wing and tail, often in rows (not the long flight or tail feathers)
CRANIAL - towards the front or head of the body; anterior
CRANIUM - the bones encasing the brain
CROP - expansion of the esophagus for storing ingested food before it enters the stomach. Found in nautiluses and most octopuses
CRYOPRESERVATION - cooling of biological cells (e.g. sperm) to sub-zero temperatures and storage in liquid nitrogen at -196C
CTENOPHORES - comb sea jellies or sea gooseberries
CUTICLE - very thin, most outer layer of the eggshell; adds strength and forms an important barrier against bacterial influx
CYPRINID - members of the family Cyprinidae which are small freshwater fish
CYTOKINES - small proteins secreted by various inflammatory cells of the immune system; mainly for intercellular communication and include interferon
CYTOPLASM - the fluid contained within a cell wall; the fluid that surrounds the nucleus (when present)
DACRON® - a synthetic polyester material; also called filter floss or filter wool
DEFINITIVE HOST - the final host in which the parasite reproduces; another term used is the primary or final host
DEGREE-DAYS - used for drug withholding periods; the degree-day figure is calculated by multiplying the number of days by the average water temperature for that day
DEIMATIC DISPLAY - display or pattern of behavior, such as displaying conspicuous eyespots, to scare off or momentarily distract a predator
DENDRITE - branched extension(s) on a nerve cell
DENITRIFICATION - the process of the reduction of nitrates and nitrites by bacteria to produce gaseous nitrogen which safely leaves the system
DEOXYRIBONUCLEIC ACID (DNA) - double-stranded helix that is the universal basis of all living organism’s genetic material; the genetic information is encoded in the sequence of four nucleotides (cytosine, guanine, thymine and adenine)
DERMAL - refers to the dermis layer of the skin
DERMATITIS - inflammation (often infection) of the skininflammation (often infection) of the skin
DERMIS - the layer in the skin that is under the epidermis
DESMOCYTES - “anchor cells” which attach the living polyps’ tissue to the corallite skeleton
DETRITUS - organic particles that arise from faeces, leftover food and decaying organisms
DETRIVORES (DETRITIVORES) - organisms that feed on dead organic material
DIATOMACEOUS EARTH (DE) - consists of fossilized remains of diatoms, a type of hard- shelled algae; used as a filtration aid in DE filters
DIFFERENTIAL HEAD - total of the static head and static lift
DIFFUSION - the movement of a substance from an area of high concentration of that substance to an area of lower concentration. It is a passive process i.e. no energy is used in the process as compared to an active process which uses energy
DIGENEAN - parasitic flatworms; previously called trematodes or flukes; have an indirect life cycle with other hosts involved
DIGESTA - food that is undergoing digestion, usually in the stomach
DIGESTIVE GLAND - the primary organ that secretes digestive enzymes in cephalopods (acts similar to a hepatopancreas in crustaceans)
DIHYDROTESTOSTERONE - active form of testosterone; converted in tissues
DINOFLAGELLATE - flagellate eukaryotes that constitute the phylum Dinoflagellata and include marine plankton
DIOECIOUS - the production of eggs and sperm occurs in different sexes (i.e. males and females)
DIPLOID - having two sets of chromosomes within the nucleus of each cell
DIRECT LIFE CYCLE - term for the life cycle of a pathogen / parasite in which no other animals or hosts are involved; host and pathogen are the only participants in the life cycle
DISCOSPONDYLITIS - an infection or osteomyelitis of the vertebrae and intervertebral disc
DISEASE - a pathological condition of a part, organ or system of an organism
DISINFECTION - the process of killing or inhibiting the growth of pathogenic organisms
DISSOLVED ORGANIC CARBON (DOC) - organic compounds dissolved in the water; they usually originate from the decaying process of plants and animals
DISSOLVED ORGANIC MATTER (DOM) - organic matter fraction in solution that passes through a 0.45 μm filter
DISSOLVED OXYGEN - the amount of oxygen dissolved in water; can be either expressed as a percentage of saturation at that particular temperature or in mg/l (ppm)
DISTAL - away from the centre of the body or organ
DIURESIS - increased urine production
DIURNAL - active during the day
DIVALENT ION - an ion with two charges, which may be either positive or negative. Examples are Magnesium (Mg2+) Calcium (Ca2+) Sulphate (SO42-) Carbonate (CO32-)
DIVERTICULUM - an outpouching (or outpocket) of a hollow structure in a body
DNA - Deoxyribonucleic acid – a chain of nucleotides that carry an individual’s genetic code
DO - an abbreviation for Dissolved Oxygen
DOPAMINE - chemical within the body that acts as a hormone and neurotransmitter; has an inhibitory effect on reproduction in teleosts; see also Catecholamine
DOPAMINERGIC NEURONS - specialised nerve cells in the brain that produce dopamine
DORSAL - the upper part of the body (the back)
DROPSY - common term for ascites or oedema
DUO-ADHESIVE GLAND - gland with two types of specialized cells. One cell secretes a mucus-like substance that can adhere the individual to rocks, sea grass, algae, etc. The other cell is responsible for dissolving this glue bond
DYNAMIC HEAD LOSS - see Friction Head
DYSECDYSIS - an incomplete or poor moult; the crustacean usually dies
DYSPNOEA - difficult or laboured respiration
ECDYSIS - the process of a crustacean undergoing a moult (molt) and shedding its old exoskeleton
ECDYSONE - steroidal pre-hormone produced in the Y-organ; after its release is converted to the active moulting hormone
ECTOCOMMENSALS - external commensals
ECTODERM - outermost of the three layers of cells that form in the early stages of embryo development; gives rise to the skin, brain, and nervous system
ECTODERM - outermost layer of tissue in Scyphozoans; gives rise to nematocysts and forms the bell. The ectoderm surrounds the mesoglea
ECTOPARASITES - external parasites
EDTA - an abbreviation for EthyleneDiamineTetraacetic Acid
EFFERENT - opposite of afferent; going away from an organ or tissue, usually refers to either blood vessels or nerves (think E for exit)
EFFERENT DUCTULES - network of tubules that transport mature sperm from the testes to the sperm duct
EGG DEPOSITORS - species that deposit their eggs in carefully selected locations or on specific structures, such as such as flat rocks or vegetation
EGG HIDERS - species that hide their eggs after they have been deposited to protect them from potential predators (e.g. salmon “redds”)
EGG SCATTERERS - species that spawn into the water column and produce eggs that float to the surface, sink to the substrate or adhere to underwater structures or vegetation
EGG TOOTH - small projection at the tip of the upper beak of chicks that assists with hatching
EJACULATORY APPARATUS - the distal portion of the spermatophore that is responsible for releasing the sperm
ELECTRICITY - a form of energy resulting from the existence of charged particles (electrons, protons etc.), either statically as an accumulation of charge or dynamically as a current
ELECTROMAGNETIC (EM) RADIATION - form of energy consisting of electric and magnetic fields travelling together at the speed of light (299,792,458 meters per second)
ELECTRON - the negative components of an atom which revolve around the nucleus in different layers depending in the number of electrons present
ELEMENT - refers to a group of atoms all of which are the same – such as hydrogen (H), oxygen (O), sodium (Na) etc.
EMBRYOGENESIS - the development and formation of an embryo
EMBRYONIC PHASE - period of embryo development between fertilization and hatching from the egg
ENDEMIC - refers to a disease that is commonly found in that area
ENDOCOMMENSALS - internal commensals
ENDOCRINE - refers to the system that produces the hormones
ENDOCRINE ORGAN - organ or gland in the body that secretes substances such as hormones that have an activity on another organ or system
ENDOCRINE SYSTEM - the collection of glands in the body that produce hormones
ENDODERM - the innermost of the three layers of cells that form in the early stages of embryo development; gives rise to the cells that line the gastrointestinal tract, and the urinary system
ENDOGENOUS (INTERNAL) REPRODUCTIVE CYCLE - cycle of reproductive events that occurs regularly even in the absence of external (environmental) cues, for example gamete production
ENDOPARASITES - internal parasite
ENDOSCOPIST - person trained in the use of the endoscope
ENDOSYMBIOTIC - mutually beneficial relationship between a host organism and an internal associate organism
ENDOTHERMY - ability to regulate body temperature by metabolic means (warm-blooded)
ENVIRONMENTAL ENRICHMENT - see behavioural enrichment
ENVIRONMENTAL SEX DETERMINATION - sex determination system in which the sex of an animal is, affected by environmental conditions during development
ENZOOTIC - disease that effect animals only in a certain area or season
ENZYME - proteins that act to increase (or decrease) the rate of a biochemical reaction
EPAXIAL - refers to muscles that are above or dorsal to the vertebral column
EPHYRA (SINGULAR) - solitary and immature second phase in the life history of Scyphozoans; produced by the polyp stage via strobilation and grow into an adult medusa
EPHYRAE - plural form referring to many ephyra
EPIBIONT - an organism that lives on the surface of another organism
EPIBOLY - restructuring of cells in the early embryo to form a hollow sphere of cells with the yolk at the centre
EPIDEMIOLOGY - the study of causes, distribution and control of disease in populations
EPIDERMIS - outer layer of the skin
EPIGONAL ORGAN - paired organs ventral to the kidneys and partially enveloping the cranial gonads in elasmobranchs
EPITHELIUM - tissue composed of one or more layers that form the external body surface and the internal and external surfaces of the internal organs and tissues
EPIZOIC - another name for an ectocommensal
EQUIVALENT - the weight (usually in grams) of an element that can react or replace one Hydrogen ion in a chemical reaction
ESSENTIAL AMINO ACIDS - amino acids that must be supplied in the diet i.e. cannot be made by the body
EUKARYOTE - an organism whose cells possess a nucleus; also have complex structures enclosed within membranes e.g. mitochondria
EUKARYOTIC CELLS - cells that contain membrane bound organelles including a nucleus
EURYHALINE - refers to a crustacean or fish that can tolerate wide ranges of salinity
EURYTHERMAL - refers to fish that can tolerate a very wide temperature range
EUTHANASIA - the process to intentionally end a life to relieve pain and suffering
EXOCRINE - refers to the secretion of a substance through a duct
EXOGENOUS HORMONES - hormones produced outside of the body
EXOPHTHALMIA - a marked protrusion or enlargement of the eyeball; also called pop-eye
EXOSKELETON - the rigid external body covering of crustaceans and other arthropods
EXTRATENTACULAR BUDDING - buds form from outside the parent polyp’s ring of tentacles producing a smaller polyp
EXUMBRELLA - the aboral or top of the medusa
EXUVIA - the discarded old exoskeleton following moulting
FACULTATIVE ANAEROBIC - refers to bacteria which usually use aerobic metabolism, but can survive and switch metabolism in anaerobic conditions
FACULTATIVE ANAEROBIC BACTERIA - usually use aerobic metabolism, but can survive and switch metabolism in anaerobic conditions
FATTY ACID - contains a central chain of carbon atoms and are identified by that number of carbon atoms; have a terminal carboxyl group
FECUNDITY - reproductive output of an individual or species; generally measured by the number of gametes produced
FERTILIZATION CONE - a cone shaped structure that forms following sperm fusion with the egg to block off the micropyle to prevent the entry of additional sperm
FIBROBLAST - cell that manufactures collagen and other intercellular structural framework material
FINAL OOCYTE MATURATION - process during which the oocyte completes the first meiotic division and becomes capable of fertilization
FIRST MEIOTIC PHASE - period of gamete development during which the first meiotic division occurs
FLAGELLATES - protozoans that possess flagella
FLAGELLUM - long, thin appendage that protrudes from a cell and is used to assist motility, e.g. the tail of a sperm cell
FLAGELLUM (PLURAL FLAGELLA) - long whip-like appendages of protozoa used for locomotion and in some cases for attachment
FLASHING - refers to the fish rubbing or scratching against an object due to an irritation; it is often associated with external parasites
FLEDGING - development of wing feathers such that a bird can fly; it usually means that the bird can leave the nest, although there may still be a small amount of parental care and feeding. In penguins, it is the development of adult feathers to replace the natal down
FLOCCULATING AGENT - also called a flocking agent; a chemical that when added to a solution causes flocculation to occur e.g. alum
FLOCCULATION - the process whereby suspended particles come out of suspension and form a floc or flakes by the addition of a flocculating agent which then enables their removal from the solution.
FLOCCULATION - the process whereby a chemical is added to water and the suspended solids and colloids come out of solution
FLUORESCENT PIGMENT PROTEINS - produced in the epidermal cells and provide a photobiological system for regulating the light environment of coral host tissue
FOAM FRACTIONATOR - device used to physically remove organic wastes from the water before they degrade into nitrogenous waste; mainly used in sea water systems: also called protein skimmer
FOAM FRACTIONATOR - also called protein skimmer; device used to physically remove organic waste from the water before they degrade into nitrogenous waste; mainly used in sea water systems
FOLLICLE - a small cavity (often secretory in nature); as in feather follicle
FOLLICLE CELLS - specialised cells that surround the developing oocyte and produce hormones and other factors required for oogenesis; see also Theca cells and Granulosa cells
FOLLICLE CELLS - specialised cells that surround the developing oocyte and produce hormones and other factors required for oogenesis; see also Theca cells and Granulosa cells
FOLLICLE STIMULATING HORMONE (FSH) - hormone produced by the pituitary gland that acts on the gonads to stimulate the production of reproductive hormones
FOLLICULAR - referring to follicle
FOMITE - an inanimate object, such as equipment, capable of spreading pathogens
FOMITE - an object that is capable of spreading pathogens e.g. a feeding bucket
FOMITE - an object that is capable of spreading pathogens e.g. a net
FOMITE - an object, such as a net, that is capable of spreading pathogens
FOMITE - an object, such as a net, that is capable of spreading pathogens
FOOTCANDLE - units that measure the intensity of light that falls on a surface (light meters measure this parameter). It represents one lumen per square foot (empirical units)
FORM LOSSES HEAD - the friction loss associated with fittings or a change in direction of the water flow, such as occurs at elbows or T junctions. The sum of all individual losses of a system represents the form losses head
FRAGGING - cutting adult colonies into smaller fragments, which will then develop into new functional colonies
FRICTION HEAD - is the sum of Pipe Friction Head and Form Losses Head. Also called Dynamic Head Loss
FRY - stage of development in fish following the larval period when a juvenile fish has developed to the point that it is capable of feeding itself
FUNGICIDAL - chemical that kills fungus
FUNGIIDS - corals in the family Fungiidae, commonly known as mushroom corals
FUSIFORM - tapering at each end (cigar shaped)
GALL BLADDER - storage organ for bile from the liver
GAMETE - specialised haploid cell produced by the gonads (sperm and oocytes) that contains genetic information from the parent that will eventually be passed on to the next generation
GAMETES - sperm in males and eggs (ova) in females
GANGLIA - clusters of nerve cells which are joined together
GAS BLADDER - an out-pocket of the oesophagus that contains gas; assists with buoyancy
GASTRIC - refers to the stomach
GASTRIC - referring to the stomach
GASTRIC - relating to the stomach
GASTRIC - referring to the stomach
GASTRODERM - same as endoderm
GASTRODERMIS - the inner tissue layer of a polyp; made up of different cell types which are involved in digestion and nutrient absorption
GASTROVASCULAR CANALS - network of tubes that connect the polyps to the coelenteron
GASTRULATION - stage during early embryo development during which the cells become organised into the three germ layers (endoderm, mesoderm, and ectoderm) that will give rise to the organs and structures of the body
GENERAL HARDNESS - the sum of both Carbonate Hardness and Permanent Hardness. It is the sum of all the divalent ions present in water – expressed as equivalent CaCO3
GENITAL PORE - opening through which sperm or eggs pass from the sperm duct or oviduct to the outside environment
GENOME - complete set of genetic material of an organism, including all of its’ DNA
GENOTYPIC SEX DETERMINATION - sex determination system in which the sex of an animal is determined at fertilization and is influenced primarily by genetic factors
GENUS - the category ranking below a family and above a species and generally consisting of a group of species exhibiting similar characteristics. In the Latin naming of species, the genus name appears first
GENUS (PLURAL GENERA) - a group of species exhibiting similar characteristics
GERM CELLS - specialised cells in the gonads that develop into the gametes
GERMINAL DISC (BLASTODISC) - a circular, white spot located on the surface of the yolk and is the nucleus of the egg cell (ovum); germinal disc is the area that the embryo develops from
GERMINAL ZONE - area in the testes where sperm production commences
GFO - Granular Ferric Oxide media used to remove phosphates
GLOMERULUS - the section of the kidney nephron where the initial blood filtration occurs
GLYCOGEN - the storage polysaccharide for animals; chemical formula of C24H42O21
GLYCOGEN - the storage polysaccharide for animals; chemical formula of C24H42O21
GLYCOGEN - storage polysaccharide for animals; chemical formula of C24H42O21
GLYCOLIPID - combination of a carbohydrate with a lipid
GLYCOPROTEIN - combination of a protein with a lipid
GOBLET CELLS - mucous producing cells located in skin, gills and gut
GONADOSOMATIC INDEX (GSI) - the percentage of the gonad mass compared to the total body mass
GONADO-SOMATIC INDEX (GSI) - used in fish and crustaceans and represents the gonads as a percentage of total body weight
GONADOTROPIC HORMONE-I - hormone produced in the pituitary gland of fish and which stimulates gonadal function; analogous to follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) in mammals
GONADOTROPIC HORMONE-I - hormone produced in the pituitary gland of fish and which stimulates gonadal function; analogous to follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) in mammals
GONADOTROPIC HORMONE-II - hormone produced in the pituitary gland of fish and which stimulates gonadal function; analogous to luteinizing hormone (LH) in mammals
GONADOTROPIC HORMONE-II - hormone produced in the pituitary gland of fish and which stimulates gonadal function; analogous to luteinizing hormone (LH) in mammals
GONADOTROPIN-RELEASING HORMONE (GNRH) - a hormone produced in the hypothalamus that acts on the pituitary to induce gonadotropin release
GONADOTROPIN-RELEASING HORMONE (GNRH) - a hormone produced in the hypothalamus that acts on the pituitary to induce gonadotropin release
GONADS - organs in which the gametes and sex hormones are produced
GONADS - organs in which the gametes and sex hormones are produced
GONOCHORIC - having separate sexes, i.e. male and female
GONOCHORISTIC - having one distinct sex per individual i.e. having one set of gonads that produce only sperm or eggs
GONOCHORISTIC - describes the situation in which the sexes exist in separate individuals, i.e. there are both males and females within a species; opposite of hermaphroditism
GONOCHOROUS - organisms that have separate sexes; also known as dioecious
GONOPODIUM - modified extension of the anal fin used for mating to induce sperm into the female in livebearing species (e.g. Poeciliids)
GPH - gallons per hour
GPM - gallons per minute
GRAM STAIN - a dye staining process used to identify bacteria; two main groups - one stains purple (Gram-positive) and the other stains red (Gram-negative)
GRAM STAIN - a dye staining process used to identify bacteria; two main groups - one stains purple (Gram-positive) and the other stains red (Gram-negative)
GRAM STAIN - a dye staining process used to identify bacteria; two main groups - one stains purple (Gram positive) and the other stains red (Gram negative)
GRAM-CALORIE - the energy required to raise one gram (gm) of water by one degree centigrade (oC). One gram of water is one millilitre
GRANIVORE - refers to an animal that predominantly eats seeds
GRANULAR ACTIVATED CARBON (GAC) - the granular form of activated carbon used in the aquarium industry
GRANULOMA - mass of inflammatory tissue usually associated with infection or parasites
GRANULOMA - mass of inflammatory tissue; in fish often walled off by fibrous tissue; associated either with bacteria or migrating parasites
GRANULOMA - mass of inflammatory tissue; in birds often walled off by fibrous tissue; associated either with fungus, bacteria or migrating parasites
GRANULOMATOUS - referring to granulomas
GRANULOSA CELLS - specialised cells within the ovarian follicle that surround the oocyte, and the site of sex hormone production in the ovary of female teleosts
GROSSLY - refers to the larger picture i.e. what can be seen with the naked eye
GUANO - excrement of seabirds and bats
GYNOGENESIS - production of offspring from chromosomes derived solely from the female (maternal) gametes
HAEMATOLOGY - refers to the study of blood cells (red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets)
HAEMATOMA - collection of blood outside a blood vessel (similar to a bruise)
HAEMATOPHAGOUS - feeding on blood
HAEMOCYANIN OR HEMOCYANIN - copper-based metalloprotein used for transporting oxygen in the haemolymph; analogous to haemoglobin in fish and other animals
HAEMOCYTE OR HEMOCYTE - cells circulating in the haemolymph; cellular part of the innate immune system in invertebrates
HAEMOGLOBIN - a protein found in red blood cells that contains iron (Fe2+) and which binds and transports oxygen from the gills to the rest of the body
HAEMOGLOBIN / HEMOGLOBIN - iron-containing, oxygen-transporting metalloprotein located within red blood cells
HAEMOLYMPH OR HEMOLYMPH - the fluid in invertebrates that is equivalent to vertebrate blood
HAEMOLYSINS - lipids or proteins that disrupt cell membranes of red blood cells causing lysis
HAEMOLYSIS - rupture or destruction of red blood cells
HALF-LIFE - the time needed for 50% of a compound to decay or revert back to its original state
HALOCLINE - develops in a poorly mixed environment where the freshwater (lower density) is seen sitting on top of the denser sea water; the demarcation is the halocline
HALOGENS - group of non-metals that occupy the second last column (number 17) in the Periodic Table
HAPLOID - having a single set of chromosomes within the nucleus of a cell
HAPLOID - cells which contains only one set of chromosomes (ovum or sperm)
HAPLOID - having a single set of chromosomes within the nucleus of a cell
HAPLOID - single set of chromosomes as found in gametes (n)
HAPTOR - attachment or holdfast organ at the posterior end of monogeneans
HARDNESS - refers to a measure of the divalent metal ions present in water; the main two being calcium and magnesium
HEAD - refers to the height that a pump can raise water to and is usually expressed in meters or feet
HEAT CAPACITY - refers to the amount of heat (energy) required to raise the temperature of a substance by one degree Celsius (1oC) = (1.8oF); also called Specific Heat
HEAT CAPACITY - refers to the amount of heat (energy) required to raise the temperature of a substance by one degree Celsius (1oC). Water has a high specific heat in comparison to air
HEAT CAPACITY - refers to the amount of heat required to raise the temperature of a substance by one degree Celsius. Also called specific heat
HEAT CAPACITY - the amount of heat required to raise the temperature of a substance by one degree Celsius (1oC)
HECTOCOTYL ARM(S) - modified arm(s) in male cephalopods that is used to transfer spermatophores during reproduction. Hectocotyl arms look morphologically different than other arms and lack suction cups at the tip (replaced with spermatophore groove and ligula)
HELMINTH - a worm that is parasitic
HELMINTH - general term for worms
HELMINTH - a worm that is parasitic
HEMOCYANIN - copper based protein in cephalopod blood that is more efficient at transporting oxygen compared to hemoglobin in vertebrates
HEPA - High Efficiency Particulate Air filter
HEPA FILTER - acronym for High Efficiency Particulate Air Filters
HEPATIC - relating to the liver
HEPATIC - referring to the liver
HEPATIC - refers to the liver
HEPATOCYTE - liver cell
HEPATOCYTES - liver cells
HEPATOMEGALY - enlargement of the liver
HEPATOPANCREAS - mid-gut gland or digestive gland of crustaceans
HERBIVORE - refers to an animal that eats plants, grains
HERBIVORE - plant eating animal
HERMAPHRODITIC - individuals may have partial or complete sets of gonads of both sexes. i.e. a jelly that possesses both egg and sperm producing gonad
HERMAPHRODITIC - both sexes in the same individual
HERMATYPIC CORALS - corals in the order Scleractinia which build reefs by depositing hard calcareous material for their skeletons; forming the stony framework of the reef
HETEROCERCAL - description for a caudal or tail fin, where the dorsal section is larger than the ventral section and the vertebral column extends into the dorsal section as support; the tail of sharks
HETEROGAMETIC - refers to the sex of a species that has two different sex chromosomes, e.g. XY males or ZW females
HETEROPHILIA - an increase in the number of circulating heterophils in the bloodstream
HETEROSPECIFIC - an organism of a different species
HETEROTROPHIC - refers to an organism that must obtain its food and energy by taking in organic substances e.g. plants or animals; opposite of an autotroph
HETEROTROPHIC BACTERIA - bacteria where the cellular carbon is obtained from organic sources
HETEROTROPHIC BACTERIA - bacteria where the cellular carbon is obtained from organic sources
HETEROTROPHIC BACTERIA - bacteria where the cellular carbon is obtained from other organic sources
HETEROTROPHY - supply of energy comes from feeding on animal or plant matter
HEXACORALLIA - subclass divided into five orders which include anemones, black corals, mushroom corals, stony corals and zoanthids
HEXOSES - group of simple sugars with six carbon atoms such as glucose
HIGH EFFICIENCY PARTICULATE AIR (HEPA) FILTERS - high-grade air filters that filter down to 2 µm; routinely used in human hospitals
HIGHLY UNSATURATED FATTY ACIDS (HUFAS) - a fatty acid with many unsaturated bonds
HIRUDIN - produced by the leech salivary gland and has anticoagulant activity
HISTOLOGY - study of the microscopic anatomy of cells and tissues
HISTOPATHOLOGY - microscopic examination of cells and tissues to determine the presence of disease.
HISTOTROPH - uterine secretions that provide additional nutrition to developing embryos; called the “uterine milk”
HOLOBIONT - comprises the coral animal and its associated microorganisms consisting of bacteria, archaea, fungi, viruses, protists, and symbiotic including zooxanthellae
HOLOCEPHALAN - sub-group of Chondrichthyes; the chimaera
HOLOPLANKTONIC - entire life cycle spent as plankton; lacks a benthic polyp phase
HOMEOSTASIS - refers to a constant balance state or equilibrium within the body
HOMEOSTASIS - refers to a constant balance state or equilibrium within the body
HOMEOSTASIS - a constant balance state or equilibrium of the body; the normal state
HOMEOSTASIS - refers to a constant balance state or equilibrium within the body
HOMEOTHERMY - refers to the ability to thermoregulate that maintains a stable internal body temperature regardless of the external environment; also called endothermy
HOMOCERCAL TAIL - vertebrae do not extend into the tail; usually symmetrical with the upper and lower lobes being similar
HOMOGAMETIC - refers to the sex of a species that has two sex chromosomes that are the same, e.g. XX females or ZZ males
HORIZONTAL TRANSMISSION - normal transmission of a pathogen from one member of a species to another member
HORMONE - a chemical substance produced in one cell and secreted, which then has an effect on another cell or organ and is transported to the second cell or organ usually by the blood stream. The second cells have specific receptors for the hormones that allow them to function and produce the effect. Are critical in maintaining homeostasis
HORMONE - a chemical substance produced in one cell and secreted, which then has an effect on another cell or organ and is transported to the second cell or organ usually by the blood stream. The second cells have specific receptors for the hormones that allow them to function and produce the effect. Are critical in maintaining homeostasis
HORMONE - chemical substance produced in one cell and secreted, which then has an effect on another cell or organ and is transported to the second cell or organ usually by the blood stream
HORMONE - a chemical substance produced in one cell and secreted, which then has an effect on another cell or organ and is transported to the second cell or organ usually by the blood stream. The second cells have specific receptors for the hormones that allow them to function and produce the effect. Are critical in maintaining homeostasis
HORMONE INDUCTION - administration of exogenous hormones to stimulate the reproductive system of an individual and induce gamete maturation and spawning
HORMONES - chemical substance that is produced in one cell and which has an effect on the activity of a second cell or organ. Hormones usually travel via the blood stream and attach to specific receptors located on the target cell or organ to produce an effect
HORMONES - chemical substance that is produced in one cell and which has an effect on the activity of a second cell or organ. Hormones usually travel via the blood stream and attach to specific receptors located on the target cell or organ to produce an effect
HORSEPOWER (HP) - a unit of power, the rate at which work is done; 1 hp = 746 watts
HOST - an organism in which a parasite resides
HOST-SPECIFIC - parasite that is capable of only living on one host species and not any others
HOST-SPECIFIC - parasite that is capable of only living on one host species and not any others
HPA AXIS - Hypothalamus-Pituitary-Adrenal axis
HUMIC SUBSTANCE - organic residue that occurs from the biodegradation of dead plant matter
HUMORAL - pertaining to elements in the blood or other body fluids
HUMORAL - refers to fluids within the body, particularly related to the immune system
HUMORAL - pertaining to elements in the blood or other body fluids
HVAC - acronym for Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning
HVAC - acronym for Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning
HYDRAULIC LOAD - the volume of water that a treatment/filter can process; usually expressed as volume of water per unit and/or per unit surface area
HYDRAULICS - the physical science of the dynamic movement of liquids within pipes and the pressures involved
HYDROID - the sessile, colonial phase of the life cycle in hydrozoans
HYDROLYTIC REACTION - refers to the cleavage of chemical bonds by the addition of water
HYDROMEDUSA - the free swimming, solitary phase of the life cycle in hydrozoans
HYDROPHOBIC - physical property of a molecule, that repels or fails to mix with water
HYDROPONICS - a method of growing plants in water, without soil, using mineral nutrient solutions
HYDROSTAT - refers to arm or tentacle
HYDROSTATIC PRESSURE - the pressure exerted by a fluid due to the effects of gravity
HYDROSTATIC PRESSURE - the pressure exerted by a fluid due to the effects of gravity
HYPAXIAL - refers to muscles that are below or ventral to the vertebral column
HYPERCAPNIA - an increased level of carbon dioxide in the blood stream
HYPEROXIA - an increased level of oxygen in the water
HYPERPLASIA - a proliferation of cells within an organ or tissue; the cells appear normal but are present in higher numbers
HYPERPLASIA - a proliferation of cells within an organ or tissue; the cells appear normal but are present in higher numbers
HYPERPLASIA - a proliferation of cells within an organ or tissue; the cells appear normal but are present in higher numbers
HYPERTHERMIA - state of stress in a fish due to a rapid increase in water temperature
HYPERTONIC - refers to body fluid that has a higher osmotic pressure than the environmental osmotic pressure
HYPERTROPHY - the enlargement of cells in a tissue
HYPERTROPHY - an increase in the size of a cell
HYPERTROPHY - an increase in the size of a cell
HYPHAE - the fine thread-like, branching filaments seen in Fungi
HYPHAE - fine thread-like, branching filaments of fungus
HYPOCALCAEMIA - low blood calcium level
HYPOGLYCAEMIA - a low blood glucose level
HYPOPHYSIS - alternative name for the pituitary gland
HYPOTHALAMIC-PITUITARY-GONADAL (HPG) AXIS - refers to the three endocrine organs (the hypothalamus, pituitary gland, and gonads) and hormones involved in regulating reproduction in vertebrates
HYPOTHALAMIC-PITUITARY-GONADAL (HPG) AXIS - refers to the three endocrine organs (the hypothalamus, pituitary gland, and gonads) and hormones involved in regulating reproduction in vertebrates
HYPOTHALAMIC-PITUITARY-INTERRENAL (HPI) AXIS - refers to the three endocrine organs (the hypothalamus, pituitary gland, and interrenal gland) and hormones involved in regulating several body systems including the stress response in vertebrates
HYPOTHALAMUS - structure within the brain that acts directly on the pituitary to translate signals received by the brain into endocrine responses, and which secretes gonadotropin-releasing hormone to regulate the reproductive system
HYPOTHALAMUS - structure within the brain that acts directly on the pituitary to translate signals received by the brain into endocrine responses, and which secretes gonadotropin-releasing hormone to regulate the reproductive system
HYPOTHALAMUS - central part of the brain that has a vital role in controlling many body functions, particularly the release of hormones from the pituitary gland
HYPOTHERMIA - state of stress in a fish due to a rapid drop in water temperature
HYPOXIA - refers to low or poor levels of dissolved oxygen in water or in an animal’s body
HYPOXIA - refers to low or poor levels of dissolved oxygen in water or in an animal’s body
HYPOXIA - reduced oxygen content in the water leading to insufficient oxygen supply for aquatic organisms
HYPOXIA - refers to low or poor levels of dissolved oxygen in water or in an animal’s body
HYPOXIC ENVIRONMENT - environment with low levels of oxygen
ICHTHYOPLANKTON - eggs and larvae of pelagic-spawning species that drift in the ocean currents
ICP-OES - Inductively Coupled Plasma - Optical Emission Spectrometry is an analytical technique for measuring a broad spectrum of macro and trace elements
ILLUMINANCE - the amount of light that is falling on a surface; general term referring to lux or footcandles; level of illumination and represented by the symbol E
IMMOTILE - not motile, i.e. not moving
IMMUNOGLOBULIN - protein which is an important part of the immune system; antibodies
IMMUNOGLOBULINS - proteins which are an important part of the immune system, antibodies
IMMUNOGLOBULINS - proteins which are an important part of the immune system, antibodies
IMMUNOGLOBULINS - proteins which are an important part of the immune system; antibodies
IMMUNOGLOBULINS - proteins which are an important part of the immune system; antibodies
IMMUNOSUPPRESSION - suppresses or weakens the immune system
IMMUNOSUPPRESSION - suppresses or weakens the immune system
IMMUNOSUPPRESSION - suppressing or weakening the immune system
IMPELLER - looks like an old-fashioned airplane propeller; inside a pump, the impeller rotates and converts the electrical energy in the motor to the kinetic energy of the water
IN VITRO FERTILIZATION - fertilizing an egg in a laboratory dish or test tube
INCIDENCE - see morbidity rate
INCUBATION PERIOD - the time from coming in contact with the pathogen and the development of clinical signs
INDIRECT LIFE CYCLE - term for the life cycle of a pathogen / parasite in which at least one other animal host is involved before the final stage occurs in the definitive host; also called a complex life cycle
INDIRECT LIFE CYCLE - term for the life cycle of a pathogen / parasite in which at least one other animal host is involved before the final stage occurs in the definitive host; also called a complex life cycle
INFECTIOUS DISEASE - one caused by a pathogen that can spread from one animal to another
INFECTIOUS DISEASE - one caused by a pathogen that can spread from one animal to another
INFUNIDBULUM - outer rim of cephalopod suckers surrounding the acetabulum
INGESTA - food that has been taken into the stomach
INNATE IMMUNE SYSTEM - reacts quickly to any threat but has no long-term action and no memory so if exposure to the same pathogen occurs again in the future, the innate system will need to react again in the same manner
INORGANIC COMPOUND - any compound that does not contain the element carbon
INSECTIVORE - refers to an animal that eats insects and other invertebrates
INTERFERON - part of the innate immune system; are released into the serum and assist in inhibiting viral replication (not virus specific)
INTERFERONS - proteins released into the serum that assist in inhibiting viral replication
INTERMEDIATE HOST - a host that a parasite lives in for a time, usually undergoing some development before it passes onto the final host; part of an indirect life cycle
INTERMEDIATE HOSTS - are involved in indirect life cycles; in intermediate hosts the parasites undergo some development to the next stage; intermediate hosts are rarely harmed by this stage
INTERMEDIATE HOSTS - are involved in indirect life cycles; in intermediate hosts the parasites undergo some development to the next stage; intermediate hosts are rarely harmed by this stage.
INTERNAL OSMOLARITY - concentration of dissolved ions in bodily fluids, measured as the number of osmoles per litre (Osm/L)
INTERRENAL GLAND - endocrine organ found in the anterior kidney in fish that produces hormones including cortisol; equivalent of the adrenal gland in mammals
INTERTIDAL SPAWNERS - species that spawn during higher than average tides that provide access to intertidal areas that are otherwise inaccessible
INTRACELLULAR - located within cells
INTRAFOLLICULAR GESTATION - development of the embryo occurs within the ovarian follicle; found in some Poeciliid species
INTRALUMINAL GESTATION - development of the embryo occurs within the lumen of the ovary; found in some Goodeidae species
INTRAMUSCULAR (IM) - the administration of an injection into the skeletal muscle
INTRAMUSCULAR (IM) - the administration of an injection into the skeletal muscle
INTRATENTACULAR BUDDING - formation of buds from the parents oral disk, producing same size polyps within the ring of the tentacles
INTROMITTENT ORGAN - external organ of a male organism that is specialized to deliver sperm during copulation
INVOLUTES - returns to a previous state, disappears
IODOPHOR - iodine-based preparations that have disinfectant properties
ION - an atom or molecule where the total number of electrons (negatively charged particles) is not equal to the total number of protons (positively charged particles). This gives the atom or molecule either a net positive or negative electrical charge
ION - an atom or molecule where the total number of electrons (negatively charged particles) is not equal to the total number of protons (positively charged particles). This gives the atom or molecule either a net positive or negative electrical charge
IRIDOPHORES - platelet-like components in cephalopod skin that are responsible for producing iridescent colouration (type pf chromatophore)
ISOTOPE - two forms of a chemical element with the same number of protons but a different number of neutrons, giving them different atomic weights. Isotopes of the same element usually have similar properties
ITEROPAROUS - reproductive strategy whereby a species is able to undergo multiple reproductive cycles during its lifetime
ITEROPAROUS - the reproductive strategy where animals produce offspring multiple times over the course of their life as opposed to a single reproductive episode
JOULE - a unit of electrical energy
JUVENILE HERMAPHRODITISM - see Sequential hermaphroditism
KALKWASSER - saturated limewater and one of the most commonly used calcium sources in reef aquariums
KEEL - ventral midline bone that is part of the sternum or breastbone; site of attachment of the muscles involved in either flight or swimming
KELVIN (K) - the unit of measurement of thermodynamic temperature
KELVIN (K) - the unit of measurement of colour temperature
KERATIN - fibrous protein that is the main structural constituent of feathers, beak and toenails
KERATIN - protein that is present in bird’s nails and feathers
KERATITIS - inflammation of the surface (cornea) of the eye
KILOGRAM-CALORIE - the energy needed to raise one litre of water by 1oC or 1.8oF
KINETIC ENERGY - the energy of motion
KYPHOSIS - excessive curve of the spine
LAPPET - subdivisions of the bell margin
LARVAL PHASE - period of development after hatching from the egg and prior to metamorphosis into fry
LATERAL - to the side of the body
LATERAL - to the side of the body
LATERAL - to the side of the body
LC50 - abbreviation for Lethal Concentration 50; a figure used in toxicological studies and is the concentration (or dose) given that causes 50 % of the population to die usually in a 24 to 96 hour period
LD50 - abbreviation for Lethal Dose 50; see LC50
LED - acronym for Light Emitting Diode
LED - Light Emitting Diode; semiconductor light source that emits light when current flows through it
LEUCOPHORES - skin components in cephalopod skin that are primarily responsible for reflecting white light, producing white colouration (type of chromatophore)
LEUKOCYTE - white blood cells
LEUKOCYTE - white blood cells; includes all the different types
LEUKOCYTOSIS - an increase in the total white blood cell count
LEUKOCYTOSIS - an increase in the total white blood cell count
LEUKOPAENIA - a decrease in total white blood cell numbers
LEUKOPAENIA - decrease in total white blood cell numbers
LEYDIG CELLS - specialised cells located in the interstitial tissue surrounding the spermatogenic tubules within the testes that are the primary site of sex hormone production in males
LIGAND - an ion or molecule that binds to a central metal atom; are often organic compounds
LIGULA - the specialized distal portion of the hectocotyl arm in many male cephalopods that is responsible for passing the spermatophores to the female
LIPID - refers to fat compounds
LIPIDS - large group of molecules that include fatty acids, oils, phospholipids, glycolipids and steroids, which are all hydrophobic
LIPIDS - large group of molecules that include fatty acids, oils, phospholipids, glycolipids and steroids, which are all hydrophobic
LOBULAR TESTIS - form of testicular morphology in which the spermatogenic tubules are not interconnected and are instead closed at one end (the end closest to the periphery of the testes) to form a lobule
LPH - liters per hour
LPM - liters per minute
LSS - Life Support System
LSS - acronym for Life Support System
LUMEN - a measure of the total quantity of visible light emitted by a source per unit of time
LUMEN - the unit of total light output from a light source and is in reality units of energy output; it is also called luminous flux (symbol F)
LUMEN - the inside of a tubular organ e.g. blood vessel, intestine
LUMINANCE - also called brightness and is the intensity of the light leaving a surface
LUNAR PHASE - period of time for one lunar cycle (i.e. the transition from new moon to full moon then back to new moon) to occur; approximately 28 days
LUTEINIZING HORMONE (LH) - hormone produced by the pituitary gland that acts on the gonads to stimulate the production of reproductive hormones
LUX - units that measure the in density of light that falls on a surface (light meters measure this parameter); it represents one lumen per square metre (SI units)
LYMPH - clear fluid found in the spaces between cells in tissues and in the lymphatic system
LYMPHATIC SYSTEM - collection of small vessels that collects lymph and returns it to the bloodstream
LYMPHOCYTE - a type of white blood cell
LYMPHOCYTE - a type of white blood cell
LYMPHOCYTOSIS - an increase in the number of circulating lymphocytes in the bloodstream
LYMPHOID - refers to the tissues responsible for producing lymphocytes and antibodies
LYMPHOID - refers to the tissue(s) that produce lymphocytes and antibodies
LYMPHOKINES - substances produced by lymphocytes (mainly T-cells) that effect the function of other cells
LYMPHOMYELOID - tissue where the blood cells (red and white) are produced
LYMPHOPAENIA - a decrease in circulating lymphocyte numbers in the bloodstream
LYMPHOPAENIA - decrease in lymphocyte numbers
LYSOZYMES - an enzyme that can kill some types of bacteria by dissolving the cell wall; found in mucous
LYSOZYMES - an enzyme that can kill some types of bacteria by dissolving the cell wall
LYSOZYMES - enzymes capable of digesting bacterial cell walls, present in the innate immune system
MACROPHAGE - the main cell involved in the phagocytosis process; develop from circulating monocytes; macro= large and phage = eaters
MAINS PRESSURE WATER - the water as supplied by public utilities; also called town water
MALPIGHIAN CELLS - the non-keratinised, squamous epithelial cells in the outer skin layer of fish. They are not dead cells constantly sloughing off, but are capable of multiplication at all levels
MANIFOLD - a pipe or chamber branching into several openings
MANTLE - the large portion of cephalopod’s anatomy containing many visceral organs (stomach, gills, gonads, etc.). Seawater is pumped in and out of the mantle to ventilate their gills and provide locomotion (through siphon)
MANUBRIUM - mouth structure
MARGIN - the edge of the bell or medusa, usually where tentacles originate and divided into lappets
MARINE SNOW - small, mostly organic particles that fall from the upper water column through the depths of the ocean. These particles can be made of fish scales, discarded plankton housings, and fecal excrement among other things
MAXILLIPEDS - the first three pairs of the eight pairs of thoracic appendages; they are feeding appendages
MEDIAL - to the middle of the body
MEDIAL - to the middle of the body
MEDIAL - to the middle of the body
MEDUSA (SINGULAR) - the solitary, pelagic life stage of Scyphozoans
MEDUSAE - plural form referring to many medusae
MEDUSAVORE - relies on other gelatinous zooplankton for prey
MEIOSIS - process of cell division during which the number of chromosomes in the nucleus is halved
MELANIN - dark brown to black pigment
MELANIN - dark pigment produced by cells called melanocytes
MELATONIN - peptide hormone produced by the pineal gland in response to changes in photoperiod
MESENTERY - thin membrane that supports and covers the intestines
MESENTRY (PL. MESENTERIES) - the soft tissue or membranes arranged in sheet-like partitions that extend from the body wall into the gastrovascular cavity
MESODERM - middle layer of the three layers of cells that form in the early stages of embryo development; gives rise to the muscles and skeletal system
MESOGLEA - the tissue layer between the ectoderm and endoderm; is rigid and forms almost a hydroskeleton mostly comprised of water
MESOGLEA - thin layer between the epidermis and the gastrodermis; this layer is predominantly an acellular gelatinous connective tissue layer
MESORCHIUM - tissue that supports the testes from the dorsal wall at the cranial end of the body cavity
METALLOPROTEIN - a protein that contains a metal
METALLOPROTEIN - a protein that contains a metal
METAZOAN - animal having a multicellular body with cells differentiated into tissues
METAZOANS - multi-cellular eukaryotes (includes most animals)
METAZOANS - multicellular animals, with a digestive cavity and nervous system
METHAEMOGLOBIN - the methaemoglobin molecule is not capable of holding oxygen as well as normal haemoglobin and respiratory distress develops; the blood appears a brown colour rather than red
MICRO-BUBBLE - a bubble with a diameter less than 1 millimetre (mm) and greater than 1 micrometre (µm) in size
MICROPYLE - tiny pore in the outer membrane of the egg through which sperm can enter
MIDPIECE - region of sperm between the head and the tail, containing mitochondria for energy production
MIDPIECE - region of sperm between the head and the tail, containing mitochondria for energy production
MILLIEQUIVALENT - one thousandth of an equivalent
MILT - mixture of sperm and the seminal fluid that surrounds them; may contain either individual sperm or spermatozeugmata suspended within the seminal fluid
MIRACIDIUM - first free-swimming larval stage of a digenean after hatching from the egg
MITOCHONDRIA - the energy producing organelle of cells
MITOCHONDRIA - small organs in the cytoplasm of cells; contain many enzymes and are the energy producing site of the cell
MITOSIS - process of cellular replication, involving chromosome duplication and cell division to give rise to new cells
MOLAR MASS - the mass of one mole of a substance expressed in grams. The standard method of quoting the figure is grams of substance per mole of substance. This is abbreviated to g/mol or g mol-1
MOLE - (abbreviated to mol for calculations). The unit of measurement of the amount of a chemical substance and contains 6.02 x 1023 molecules of that substance. In chemical equations, it usually means the amount of the substance
MOLECULE - when two or more atoms (may or may not be the same type of atom) combine usually in a set arrangement and are also electrically neutral. The atoms are held together by covalent chemical bonds. Three molecules which are very relevant to this discussion are oxygen, water and salt
MOLECULE - two or more atoms (may or may not be the same type of atom) combine usually in a set arrangement and are also electrically neutral. The atoms are held together by covalent chemical bonds. Examples are oxygen (O2), water (H2O) and salt (NaCl)
MONOCYTE - a type of white blood cell
MONOCYTE - a type of white blood cell
MONOCYTOSIS - an increase in the number of circulating monocytes in the bloodstream
MONOGENEAN - parasitic flatworms; previously called trematodes or flukes; have a direct life cycle with no other hosts involved
MONOGENEAN - parasitic flatworms; previously called trematodes or flukes; have a direct life cycle with no other hosts involved
MONOMORPHIC - the males and females of a species appear similar physically on an external examination
MONOMORPHIC - the males and females appear similar externally
MONOSPECIFIC - referring to a single species
MONOVALENT ION - an ion with only one charge, which can be either positive or negative. Examples are Sodium (Na+) Potassium (K+) Chloride (Cl-) Bicarbonate (HCO3-)
MORBIDITY - refers to disease or illness irrespective of the cause i.e. affected animals
MORBIDITY - refers to disease or illness irrespective of the cause i.e. affected animals
MORBIDITY RATE - number of fish affected by a disease in a population; also expressed as a number or percentage
MORBIDITY RATE - the number of affected fish in a population and is usually higher than the mortality rate as not all affected animals die. The morbidity rate can also be expressed as a number or percentage. It may also be called the incidence or prevalence rate.
MORIBUND - very sick or nearly dead
MORIBUND - term to describe the condition of an animal that is in terminal decline, lacking vitality, or vigor
MORPHOLOGY - the shape and structure of an organism or a part of the organism
MORPHOLOGY - the form and structure of an organism or a part of an organism
MORPHOMETRICS - measuring the shape and form of living organisms
MORTALITY - refers to death of an animal; also called ‘morts’ or ‘stiffs’
MORTALITY - refers to death; dead fish are often referred to as ‘morts’ or ‘stiffs’
MORTALITY RATE - the number of deaths in a population of fish and is often expressed as a number or percentage.
MORTALITY RATE - number of deaths in a population of fish; expressed either as a number or a percentage
MOTILE - ability of a cell (especially sperm) to move; commonly used as a measure of sperm quality
MOTILE - capable of movement
MOW - Medusae of the World
MUCOPOLYSACCHARIDE - complex carbohydrates that provide support for connective tissue
MUCOSA(E) - a membrane that covers the surface of internal organs and lines body cavities; consists of one or more layers of epithelial cells overlying a layer of loose connective tissue
MUCOSAL - refers to mucosa(e)
MUCOSAL MEMBRANE - or mucosa (plural mucosae) line any of the bodies passages or cavities that communicate with the outside environment; composed of cells and associated glands that secrete mucous
MUCOSAL MEMBRANE - or mucosa (plural mucosae) line any of the bodies passages or cavities that communicate with the outside environment; composed of cells and associated glands that secrete mucous.
MUSSIDS - hermatypic or reef-building corals and can be either solitary or colonial in the family Mussidae
MYOGLOBIN - an iron-containing, oxygen-binding protein found in skeletal muscle, similar to haemoglobin in the blood
MYOMERE - bundles or blocks of skeletal muscle
MYOPATHY - refers to a disease (pathology) of muscle tissue
NANOMETRE (NM) - is 1 x 10-9 of a metre; or 1,000th of a micron (µm)
NARES - refers to the nostrils
NATAL DOWN - the feathers on baby birds
NATAL DOWN - the feathers on baby birds
NECROPHAGIA - the eating of dead material i.e. other dead fish
NECROSIS - death of cells or tissues, often localised
NECROSIS - death of cells or tissues, often localised
NECROTIZING - undergoing necrosis or causes necrosis
NEMATOCYST - specialised stinging cells also called cnidocytes
NEMATOCYST - a stinging cell unique to cnidarians; used to inject venom into prey or used as defense; contains a capsule, tubule and shaft
NEMATOCYST BATTERIES - because cnidocytes are “single-use” cells, they are connected as "batteries", containing several types of cnidocytes connected by neurons to regulate discharge
NEMATODE - also called roundworms; non-segmented body with an intestinal system; may or may not be parasitic
NEMATODES - long cylindrical worms; also known as roundworms
NEMATODES - long cylindrical worms; also known as roundworms
NEOPLASM - abnormal growth of tissue that develops and grows because cells multiply more rapidly than normal; usually uncontrolled and progressive
NEPHROCALCINOSIS - mineral deposits within various tubules in the kidneys
NEPHRON - the functional unit of kidneys; consist of the glomerulus and the associated tubules which together produce urine
NERVE NET - decentralized nervous system found in cnidarians; unlike central nervous systems, where neurons are typically grouped together, neurons found in nerve nets are found spread apart
NET POSITIVE SUCTION HEAD (NPSH) - is the pressure needed for a pump to run without causing cavitation; the pressure head at the pump inlet should therefore exceed the NPSH to prevent cavitation
NEUROENDOCRINE - the hormone is released following stimulation by neural (nervous system) impulses, as against another hormone stimulating the releasethe hormone is released following stimulation by neural (nervous system) impulses, as against another hormone stimulating the release
NEUROENDOCRINE GLAND - the hormone is released following stimulation by neural (nervous system) impulses; different to the situation where another hormone stimulates the release
NEURON (OR NEURONE) - nerve cell
NEUROTRANSMITTER - chemical messenger released by nerve cells to communicate with other nerve cells, muscle cells, or an endocrine organ
NEURULA - stage of early embryo development during which the process of neurulation occurs
NEURULATION - formation of the notochord, which develops into the nervous system (i.e. brain and spinal cord) in vertebrates
NEUTRACEUTICAL - a food or part of a food that provides health benefits, either the prevention of or treatment of disease
NEUTRON - the neutrally charged components of the nucleus of the atom
NEUTROPHIL - a type of white blood cell, involved in phagocytosis
NEUTROPHILIA - an increase in the number of neutrophils
NITRIFICATION PROCESS - the two-step process that uses autotrophic bacteria and converts ammonia (NH3) to nitrite (NO2-) and then to nitrate (NO3-)
NITROGENOUS - contains the element nitrogen (N)
NITROGENOUS - Nitrogenous
NOCICEPTOR - a sensory nerve cell that detects and then responds to damaging or potentially damaging stimuli
NON-ESSENTIAL AMINO ACIDS - amino acids that can be produced in cells by the transformation from other amino acids within the body
NON-ESSENTIAL AMINO ACIDS - amino acids that can be produced in cells by the transformation from other amino acids within the body
NON-SPECIFIC CYTOTOXIC CELLS - type of lymphocyte that is the equivalent of mammalian natural killer cells; these cells attack and destroy aberrant cells that could become cancerous, as well as destroying cells infected with viruses and protozoans
NON-STEROIDAL ANTI-INFLAMMATORY DRUGS (NSAIDS) - a group of analgesic drugs that decrease pain and inflammation
NOTOCHORD - structure that forms during neurulation in vertebrates that will eventually develop into the brain and spinal cord
NUCLEUS - the control centre of the cell which contains the DNA; usually centrally located in the cell surrounded by the cytoplasm
NUCLEUS - the central part of an atom comprised of the positive components (protons) and neutrons (no charge)
NUTRIENT - a substance that provides nourishment
NUTRIMENT - something that nourishes or promotes growth, provides energy, repairs body tissues, and maintains life
OCELLUS - circular colour patches or “false eye spots” that some cephalopod species can display using their skin’s colour changing components. Used when cephalopods defend their territory or to ward off predators
OCTANT - one of the eight divisions of the bell of a sea jelly
OCTOCORALLIA - members in the order Octocorallia are made up of colonial polyps with eight fold symmetry
OEDEMA - excess fluid accumulation in the body cavity (also called ascites) or in the tissues
OEDEMA - fluid retention in the body tissues and especially the skin
OESOPHAGUS - tube-like structure that connects the oral cavity with the stomach or digestive tract
OESTROGENS - primary hormones of the female reproductive cycle; main form of oestrogen in fish is oestradiol-17β, which is produced by the granulosa cells in the ovary
OESTROGENS - primary hormones of the female reproductive cycle; main form of oestrogen in fish is oestradiol-17β, which is produced by the granulosa cells in the ovary
OHM - is the electrical unit for resistance; symbol for Ohm is Ω
OLIGOTROPHIC WATER - water with low nutrient levels
OMNIVORE (OMNIVOROUS) - animal that eats a variety of foods, that includes animal and plant material
ONCOMIRACIDIUM - the small motile stage that hatches from a monogenean egg
ONTOGENESIS - development of an organism from fertilization to their adult form
OOCYTE HYDRATION - uptake of water prior to ovulation that causes the oocyte to swell and become more buoyant
OOCYTES - female gamete; also known as “eggs”; produced in the ovary of female animals under the control of the reproductive hormones and which contains the maternal genome
OOCYTES - female gamete; also known as “eggs”; produced in the ovary of female animals under the control of the reproductive hormones and which contains the maternal genome
OOGENESIS - process of oocyte development in the ovary
OOGENESIS - process of oocyte development in the ovary
OOGONIA - germ cells in the ovary that will develop to become mature oocytes through the process of oogenesis
OOLEMMA - plasma membrane that surrounds the cytoplasm and cell contents of an oocyte
OPERCULUM - bony covering that protects the fish gills
OPISTHAPTOR - another name for the haptor
OPISTHOTONUS - abnormal posture with arching backwards of the neck, due to muscle spasms
OPTIC CUPS - group of cells in the early embryo that eventually develop into the eyes
ORAL ARM - long fold of tissue extending from the manubrium, used for prey capture and digestion; usually four in Semaestomes and eight in Rhizostomes
ORBIT - the bony structures of the skull that house and protect the eye and associated muscles, nerves and blood vessels
ORBIT - the eye socket, consisting of the bones that surround the eye
ORGANIC NITROGEN - nitrogen that is found in living cells in proteins, peptides, and amino acids
ORGANOGENESIS - process of organ development from the ectoderm, mesoderm, and endoderm cells in the early embryo
ORP - the sum of all the redox reactions (electron transfers) that are occurring in a solution; is measured in millivolts (mV)
OSMOCONFORMER - organism that maintains its internal osmotic pressure equal to the surrounding sea water
OSMOCONFORMER - organism that maintains its internal osmotic pressure equal to the surrounding seawater
OSMOCONFORMERS - animals that maintain an internal environment that is osmotic to their external environment
OSMOLALITY - concentration of a solution; number of solute particles per kilogram
OSMOREGULATION - the active control and regulation of the osmotic pressure of an organism's body fluids to maintain the homeostasis (normal balance) of the organism's water
OSMOREGULATION - the active control and regulation of the osmotic pressure of an organism's body fluids to maintain the homeostasis (normal balance) of the organism's water
OSMOREGULATOR - organism that maintains a constant internal osmotic pressure, even if the salinity of their environment changes
OSMOREGULATOR - organism that maintains a constant internal osmotic pressure, even if the salinity of their environment changes
OSMOSIS - passage of fluid (usually water) through a semipermeable membrane from a solution with a low solute (or salt) concentration to a solution with a higher solute concentration until there is an equal concentration of fluid on both sides of the membrane
OSMOTIC PRESSURE - the pressure that must be applied to a solution to prevent the inward flow of water across a semi-permeable membrane such as the skin, gills and intestinal tract
OSSICLE - a very small bone, especially those in the middle ear
OSTEOCYTE - a cell that resides in the bone and is involved in the production and destruction of bone
OSTEOMYELITIS - infection of bone
OSTIUM (PLURAL OSTIA) - Ostium (plural ostia)
OUT OF SEASON SPAWNING - spawning of a species at a different time of the year to the normal breeding season; typically achieved by manipulating environmental conditions
OVA - plural of ovum; mature eggs which are haploid
OVARIES - organs responsible for egg production and hormone secretion in female teleosts
OVARY (PLURAL OVARIES) - organ(s) responsible for egg production and hormone secretion in female elasmobranchs
OVATROPHY - also known as oophagy; embryos feed on unfertilized eggs in the uterus
OVIDUCAL GLAND - small round gland surrounding a portion of the oviduct. Located between the ovary and the oviduct opening into the mantle cavity. This gland has several reproductive functions such as sperm storage and producing secretions (external egg-coating) in the egg laying process
OVIDUCT - short tube through which eggs pass from the ovary to the uterus
OVIDUCT - short tube through which eggs pass from the ovary to the genital pore during spawning
OVIDUCTS - female reproductive pathway that can receive sperm for fertilization or transfer eggs from the ovary to the mantle cavity during egg laying. Oviducts are divided into proximal and distal portions, divided by the oviducal gland
OVIGEROUS LAMELLAE - structures within the ovary formed by the folding of the inner surface of the ovary that are the site of oogenesis
OVIPARITY - reproductive mode in which females lay their eggs into the environment and embryos develop outside the body of the parent
OVIPARITY - reproductive mode in which females lay their eggs into the environment and embryos develop outside the body of the parent
OVIPAROUS - reproduce by laying eggs
OVIPAROUS - an egg layer
OVIPOSITION - the process of laying eggs
OVOGENESIS - development of the egg ready for fertilization
OVOVIVIPARITY - reproductive mode in which embryos develop inside the parent but receive nutrients solely from yolk reserves
OVOVIVIPARITY - reproductive mode in which embryos develop inside the parent but receive nutrients solely from yolk reserves
OVULATION - release of mature oocytes from the follicle into the ovarian lumen prior to spawning
OVULATION - release of mature oocytes from the follicle into the ovarian lumen prior to spawning
OVUM (PLURAL OVA) - mature female reproductive cell (prior to fertilization)
OXIDATION REDUCTION POTENTIAL - the sum of all the redox reactions (electron transfers) that are occurring in a solution; is measured in millivolts (mV)
OXIDATION REDUCTION POTENTIAL (ORP) - the sum of all the redox reactions (electron transfers) that are occurring in a solution; is measured in millivolts (mV)
OXIDISING AGENT - a chemical compound that either readily transfers an oxygen molecule or that receives or gains an electron in a redox chemical reaction
OXIDISING AGENT (OR OXIDANT) - a chemical compound that either readily transfers (gains or losses) an oxygen molecule or that receives or gains an electron in a redox chemical reaction; the oxidising agent is then said to be reduced in the process
OXYGEN MINIMUM ZONE (OMZ) - a deep zone in the ocean where oxygen saturation is at its lowest. Depths of this zone can vary with geographic location
OZONATION - the process of using ozone
OZONATOR - the machine that produces ozone
OZONE - an unstable tri-oxygen (O3) molecule
OZONE-PRODUCED OXIDANTS (OPO) - produced when ozone reacts with chlorine and bromine in the sea water and produces chlorinated and brominated compounds called OPOs
PALEOPULMO - functional part of the avian lungs that is supplied by secondary bronchi; also called the “ancient lung”
PALYTOXIN (PLTX) - potentially lethal natural toxin originally discovered in the zoantharian Palythoa toxica (Cnidaria: Anthozoa: Hexacorallia: Zoantharia); analogues have been detected in other Palythoa and Zoanthus species, as well as in other marine organisms, such as dinoflagellates, and in other various invertebrate and vertebrate species
PAPILLAE - nodular projections on the surface of a sea jelly
PAR - Photosynthetically Active Radiation; total energy of measured light that contributes to photosynthesis. Typically measured using a spectroradiometer in units of micro moles per square meter per second
PARALARVAE - young cephalopod in the planktonic stage between hatchling and sub-adult
PARASITE - relationship between two organisms where one organism (the parasite) gains some benefit at the expense of the other organism (the host)
PARATENIC HOSTS - involved in indirect life cycles; in the paratenic (or transport) hosts the parasite undergoes no further development as opposed to intermediate hosts in which the parasite undergoes a developmental stage
PARESIS - condition of weakness of the muscles, reducing movement
PARTHENOGENESIS - asexual production of offspring without any paternal genetic contribution
PARTICULATE ORGANIC MATTER (POM) - partially decomposed detritus and other organic material particles between 0.053 mm and 2 mm in size
PASSIVE SUSPENSION FEEDERS - suspension feeders that depend exclusively on ambient water movements to drive water past their food-gathering surfaces
PATHOGEN - disease causing organism such as bacteria, viruses and parasites
PATHOGEN - disease causing organism, such as bacteria, viruses and parasites
PATHOGEN - disease causing organism such as bacteria, viruses and parasites
PATHOGEN - disease causing organism such as bacteria and viruses
PATHOGEN - disease causing organism such as bacteria, viruses and parasites
PATHOGENIC - indicates that an organism is capable of causing disease
PATHOGENIC - capable of causing disease
PATHOGENICITY - degree of the capability of a pathogen to cause disease
PATHOGENICITY - capability of an organism to cause disease
PATHOGNOMONIC - characteristic of a particular disease
PEAT - an accumulation of partially degraded vegetation (rich in humic acids and tannins), which forms in wetland bogs and moors in many regions of the world
PECTORAL FINS - the anterior pair of fins supported by the bony pectoral girdle. These are equivalent to forelimbs in four legged vertebrates
PELAGIC - refers to the open sea; neither near the shore or the bottom of the ocean
PELAGIC SPAWNERS - species that disperse sperm and eggs into the water current for fertilization, often near the surface
PELVIC FINS - more posterior or ventral and supported by the bony pelvic girdle. In lower teleosts (the soft-rayed fish such as cyprinids and salmonids) they are embedded in the ventral body musculature. These are equivalent to hind limbs in four legged vertebrates
PENAEID - a prawn (shrimp) that is a member of the family Penaeidae
PENNATE - small branches that come off the main tentacle giving it a feather like appearance
PEPTIDE - two or more amino acids, linked in a chain, joined by peptide bonds
PEPTIDE HORMONES - hormone made of amino acids (the building blocks of proteins)
PEREIOPODS - the five pairs of walking legs; associated with the last five thoracic segments
PERISTALSIS - the involuntary process whereby food is propelled through the intestinal tract by waves of smooth muscle contraction, under the control of the autonomic nervous system
PERIVITELLINE SPACE - fluid-filled region between the vitelline membrane and the oolemma; provides a protective buffer surrounding the developing embryo
PERMANENT HARDNESS - refers to the hardness that is not removed by boiling. It consists of mainly magnesium salts, especially sulphates and nitrates
PERSONAL PROTECTION EQUIPMENT (PPE) - equipment used or worn that is designed to protect a person from injury or infection, thus minimizing risk to health and safety
PETECHIA (PLURAL PETECHIAE) - small pinpoint haemorrhages
PH - refers to the level of acidity or basicity of a solution. It is an abbreviation for the Power of Hydrogen. It is related to the hydrogen ion (H+) activity of a solution and the ionisation of water
PH - an abbreviation of Power of Hydrogen (or Potential of Hydrogen) and is related to the concentration of dissolved hydronium ions (H30+). Hydronium ions are really an expression of Hydrogen ions (H+) dissolved in water
PH - an abbreviation of Power of Hydrogen (or Potential of Hydrogen) and is related to the concentration of dissolved hydronium ions (H30+). Hydronium ions are really an expression of Hydrogen ions (H+) dissolved in water
PH - refers to the level of acidity or basicity of a solution; is an abbreviation for the Power of Hydrogen; is related to the hydrogen ion (H+) activity of a solution and the ionisation of water
PH SCALE - ranges from 0 to 14 with 7 being a neutral pH. A solution with a low pH value (i.e. 0 - 6) contains a high concentration of H+ ions and is called an acidic solution. Conversely, a solution with a high pH value (i.e. 8 – 14) contains a low concentration of H+ ions (a basic solution)
PH SCALE - ranges from 0 to 14 with 7 being a neutral pH. A solution with a low pH value (i.e. 0 - 6) contains a high concentration of H+ ions and is called an acidic solution. Conversely, a solution with a high pH value (i.e. 8 – 14) contains a low concentration of H+ ions (a basic solution)
PHAGOCYTIC CELLS - cells that utilize phagocytosis
PHAGOCYTIC CELLS - cells that utilize phagocytosis
PHAGOCYTOSING - the process of phagocytosis
PHAGOCYTOSIS - the capture and digestion of bacteria, viruses, fungi etc. by phagocytic cells that are part of the immune system
PHAGOCYTOSIS - (phagocytosing) – the capturing and digestion of bacteria, viruses, fungi etc. by certain cells as part of the immune system
PHAGOCYTOSIS - the capture and digestion of bacteria, viruses, fungi etc. by phagocytic cells as part of the immune system
PHAGOCYTOSIS (PHAGOCYTOSING) - the capturing and digestion of bacteria, viruses, fungi etc. by certain cells as part of the immune system
PHAGOMIMICRY - deception in which a cephalopod’s chemical defenses, stimulate the chemosensory system of a predator to produce a false food stimulus
PHARMACOKINETICS - study of the absorption, metabolism and elimination of a drug in a body
PHARMACOKINETICS - study of the absorption, metabolism and elimination of a drug in a body
PHEROMONES - chemical signals that are given off by an individual as a signal to the same or opposite sex to synchronise reproductive development or behaviours
PHOSPHOLIPIDS - group of fatty compounds (lipids) that contain phosphorus; have a hydrophobic and a hydrophilic end; found especially in cell membranes
PHOSPHOLIPOPROTEINS - group of large molecular weight proteins, some of which transport lipids (fats) in the blood
PHOTO-ACCLIMATION - acclimating corals and zooxanthellae to changing light conditions
PHOTO-INHIBITION - the point at which increased light intensity results in a decrease in the photosynthetic rate
PHOTON - the basic unit of light and is referred to as a quantum of electromagnetic energy
PHOTOPERIOD - cycle of light and dark over a 24-hour period and particularly the daylight length compared to darkness
PHOTOPERIOD - length of time each day where an organism receives light
PHOTOPERIOD - the cycle of light and dark over a 24-hour period and particularly the daylight length compared to darkness
PHOTOPERIOD - the duration of the daily exposure to light that a fish (or any animal and plant for that matter) experiences.
PHOTOSYNTHESIS - the process whereby plants use light energy (sunlight) and carbon dioxide to produce glucose and oxygen
PHOTOSYNTHESIS - process in which chloroplasts use light (sunlight) energy to produce glucose (C6H12O6) from water and carbon dioxide
PHOTOSYNTHESIS-IRRADIANCE CURVE - relationship between photosynthesis and light intensity
PHOTOSYNTHETICALLY ACTIVE RADIATION (PAR) - the electromagnetic waves with a wavelength between 400 – 700 nm, which are used by photosynthetic organisms to produce energy
PHOTOSYNTHETICALLY USEABLE RADIATION (PUR) - the useable portion of PAR and will vary with the different photosynthetic species
PHYSIOLOGICAL RESPONSE - an instinctive bodily process in response to a stimulus
PHYSOCLISTIC - refers to fish with a muscular sphincter that permanently closes the opening from the oesophagus to the gas bladder
PHYSOSTOMOUS - refers to fish where the opening from the oesophagus to the gas bladder remains open or patent
PHYTOPLANKTON - the plant part of the plankton community; usually microscopic and produce their energy via photosynthesis
PINEAL GLAND - gland near the brain that produces melatonin in response to changes in photoperiod
PIPE FRICTION HEAD - is the friction loss that occurs in the pipes; the sum of all the individual losses of all the various lengths of pipes within the system represents the pipe friction head
PIPPING - the process of a chick hatching from the egg
PISCICIDE - a substance or chemical poisonous to fish with the intention of killing the fish
PISCICIDE - a substance or chemical poisonous to fish used with the intention of killing the fish
PISCIVORE - a carnivorous animal that eats mainly fish
PISCIVOROUS - refers to a fish-eating animal
PISCIVOROUS - a fish-eating animal
PISCIVOROUS - fish eating animal (a specific type of carnivore)
PISCIVOROUS - a fish-eating animal; a specific type of carnivore
PITUITARY GLAND - gland at the base of the brain that produces a number of hormones that regulate a range of physiological processes, including reproduction
PITUITARY GLAND - small gland located at the base of the brain that controls the endocrine system
PITUITARY GLAND - gland at the base of the brain that produces a number of hormones that regulate a range of physiological processes, including reproduction
PLANULA - free-swimming, ciliated larval form of various cnidarian species
PLASMA - the clear liquid of blood which mainly contains proteins (albumin and globulins)
PLASMA - the clear fluid part of blood
PLATELET - see thrombocyte
PLEON - the very short abdominal section of crabs; also called the tail
PLEOPODS - the six pairs of swimming legs, associated with the six abdominal segments; also called swimmerets
PMAX - point at which the maximum photosynthetic rate is reached
PNEUMATIC DUCT - the connecting tube between the oesophagus and the gas bladder
PODOCYSTS - encysted polyps that the originating polyp ‘stamps’ down using a specialized stolon
POIKILOTHERM - describes an animal whose body temperature matches the environmental temperature
POIKILOTHERMIC - refers to species whose body temperature varies with the temperature of its environment, i.e. they do not regulate their own body temperature
POIKILOTHERMIC - refers to an animal whose body temperature varies passively with the temperature of the water or environment they live in
POLYANDRY - more than one male mate; multiple paternity in the same litter can occur
POLYHYDROXYBUTYRATE (PHB) - an organic polymer used to make biopellets for increased bacterial growth and denitrification
POLYMER - substance with a molecular structure based upon many repeated sub-units
POLYMERASE CHAIN REACTION (PCR) - this technique takes very small amounts of DNA from a sample and increases it many-fold in a laboratory setting; PCR utilizes the enzyme DNA polymerase that catalyses the formation of many new DNA molecules which amplifies the original and specific DNA sequence and makes many copies, using a thermal cycler
POLYMERASE CHAIN REACTION (PCR) - process that amplifies DNA in a sample; increasingly used for diagnostic purposes
POLYP - the basic structure of members within the class Anthozoa. The polyp comprises of a cyndrical column topped by a disc with a central mouth surrounded by tentacles
POLYSACCHARIDE - carbohydrate consisting of a number of sugar molecules bonded together; includes chitin and glycogen
PORPHYRINS - red and green pigments synthesized in the bird cells
POSTERIOR - towards the rear or tail end of the body, also called caudal
POSTERIOR - towards the rear or tail end of the body; caudal
POSTERIOR - towards the rear or tail end of the body
POSTERIOR - towards the rear or tail end of the body; caudal
POST-NUPTIAL MOULT - moult after the breeding season
POST-NUPTIAL MOULT - moult after the breeding season
PPE - Personal Protective Equipment
PPE (PERSONAL PROTECTION EQUIPMENT) - protective clothing, helmets, goggles, or other garments or equipment designed to protect the wearer's body from injury or infection
PPM - an abbreviation for parts per million (= 1 milligram per litre)
PRECOCIAL - refers to chicks that are relatively mature when hatched; they are mobile, are born with their eyes open and are able to feed themselves with little assistance
PRE-NUPTIAL MOULT - moult before the breeding season
PRE-NUPTIAL MOULT - moult before the breeding season
PRE-PATENT PERIOD - the period from infection of a host by the parasite until it is an adult and producing its own offspring
PRE-PATENT PERIOD - the time from the parasite coming in contact with the host to the parasite reproducing and producing offspring
PRE-PATENT PERIOD - the period from infection of a host by the parasite until it is an adult and producing its own offspring
PREVALENCE RATE - see morbidity rate
PRIMARY OOCYTE - oocyte that has been halted at a specific stage during the first meiotic division, awaiting final oocyte maturation and ovulation
PRIMARY PATHOGEN - causes disease when there are no contributing issues from the host or environment; also called obligate pathogens
PRIMARY PATHOGEN - very potent and aggressive pathogen which is usually highly infectious
PROBIOTICS - live microorganisms (mainly bacteria) which when administered orally in adequate amounts confer a health benefit on the host
PROGESTERONE - most common and well-known progestin
PROGESTINS - group of hormones that are involved in the reproductive cycles of male and female vertebrates
PROGESTINS - group of hormones that are involved in the reproductive cycles of male and female vertebrates; most well-known progestin is progesterone
PROKARYOTE - cell that lacks a membrane bound nucleus and other membrane bound organelles such as mitochondria e.g. bacteria
PROKARYOTE - prokaryote cell is one that lacks a nucleus and other membrane bound organelles such as mitochondria; first living organism
PROLACTIN - peptide hormone secreted by the pituitary gland that is involved in brood care behaviours, brood pouch function in male syngnathids, and the transition from salt to freshwater for breeding in salmonids
PROMOTING CUES - environmental factors that help to determine the specific timing of the reproductive period in fish e.g. photoperiod, water temperature, lunar cycles
PROPHENOLOXIDASE ACTIVATING SYSTEM - critical part of the innate immune system of crustaceans
PROSTAGLANDINS - group of compounds that are cyclic fatty acids with varying hormone-like effects
PROSTAGLANDINS - group of compounds that have a wide range of actions in the body including inflammation of tissues, regulation of some hormones, ovulation, and female reproductive and courtship behaviour in teleosts
PROTANDROUS HERMAPHRODITES - species that begin life as a male and later develop into a female
PROTEASE - a group of enzymes that act on proteins
PROTEIN - group of nitrogen-containing organic compounds; essential part of all living organisms
PROTEIN HYDROLYSIS - breakdown of proteins into amino acids
PROTEIN SKIMMER - see foam fractionator
PROTEINACEOUS WASTE - waste material consisting of proteins
PROTOGYNOUS HERMAPHRODITES - species that begin life as a female and later develop into a male
PROTON - the positively charged components of the nucleus of the atom
PROXIMATE FACTORS - see Promoting cues
PTERINS - yellow pigment recently discovered in penguins
PUFA - Poly Unsaturated Fatty Acid
PURGING - the process of not feeding the fish for one to three days before transport
PURINE - nitrogen containing organic compound; two compounds based upon purine (adenine and guanine) are found in DNA
PYGOSTYLE - the tail bones of a bird that are fused into one bone
PYLORUS - terminal outflow section of the stomach; leads to the duodenum
QUARANTINE - refers to the biosecurity measures associated with new animals
QUARANTINE - maintaining a group of aquatic animals in isolation with no direct or indirect contact with other aquatic animals, in order to undergo observation for a specified length of time and, if appropriate, testing and treatment, including proper treatment of the effluent waters
RADULA - toothed-tongue used in unison with the beak to break food into smaller pieces
RALES - abnormal respiratory sounds; bubbling or rattling heard during inhalataion
RAPID TISSUE NECROSIS (RTN) - a disease condition that results in rapid degradation and sloughing of the soft tissue resulting in death of the tissue; to date no specific etiological agent has been described
RED BAND DISEASE - is associated with different species of bacteria in the cyanobacteria family
REDOX - abbreviation for an oxidation–reduction reaction which involves the transfer of electrons
REDOX REACTION - an oxidation–reduction reaction which involves the transfer of electrons
REDUCING AGENT - a chemical compound that supplies or loses an electron in a redox chemical reaction
REDUCING AGENT (OR REDUCTANT) - a chemical compound that supplies or loses an electron in a redox chemical reaction. The reducing agent is then said to be oxidised in the process
REFUGIUM - a separate system, which is typically smaller than the main display and positioned below or to the side of the main display and that shares the same water supply as the display tank. It is generally used to house additional live rock, grow live food sources, grow macro algae and to provide beneficial biological filtration. It may also be used as a location to house additional equipment such as heaters, protein skimmers, reactors, etc
REMIGES - long flight feathers
RENAL - refers to the kidney
RENAL - relating to the kidney
RENAL - refers to the kidney(s)
RENOMEGALY - enlargement of the kidneys
RETICULO-ENDOTHELIAL CELLS - cells of the reticulo-endothelial system which are capable of taking up pathogens and inert waste materials
RETICULO-ENDOTHELIAL CELLS - (RE cells) – cells of the reticulo-endothelial system; cells capable of taking up inert waste materials; include macrophages
RETICULO-ENDOTHELIAL SYSTEM - part of the immune system consisting of phagocytic cells and macrophages in various organs
RETICULO-ENDOTHELIAL SYSTEM - part of the immune system consisting of phagocytic cells and macrophages in various organs
RETRICES - tail feathers
REVERSE OSMOSIS (RO) - by placing sea water under pressure and moving slowly on one side of a semi-permeable membrane and freshwater on the other side under no pressure and moving fast, water (H2O) moves across the membrane from the sea water side to the freshwater side (opposite of what would normally happen)
RHIZOSTOME - a scyphozoan lacking tentacles with a divided manubrium giving rise to eight oral arms
RHOPALIA - a fleshy or usually bulbous tissue which houses the sensory cells of a sea jelly; organized along the margin in multiples of 8. It includes special light and gravity sensing cells to create sense of movement and direction
RHOPALIUM - singular form of rhopalia
RIBONUCLEIC ACID (RNA) - single-stranded helix that also contains four nucleotides (cytosine, guanine, uracil and adenine) and plays an essential role in protein synthesis
RIBONUCLEIC ACID (RNA) - a single-stranded helix that contains four nucleotides (cytosine, guanine, uracil and adenine); plays an essential role in protein synthesis
RIBONUCLEIC ACID (RNA) - a single-stranded helix that contains four nucleotides (cytosine, guanine, uracil and adenine); plays an essential role in protein synthesis
ROOKERY - the nesting area of a penguin colony
ROSTRAL - towards the front or head of the body; anterior or cranial
ROTATING DRUM FILTER - is a cage filled with biomedia that rotates inside a trough; provides good aeration as well as good surface area with the biomedia, also called a biodrum
ROTIFERS - group of microscopic aquatic organisms that are commonly used as a live food source for developing larvae
SALINITY - the total amount of salts (inorganic ions) dissolved in the water; normally measured in parts per thousand (ppt.)
SALINITY - the total amount of salts (inorganic ions) dissolved in the water; normally measured in parts per thousand (ppt.)
SALINOMETER - meter for measuring salinity
SALMONID - member of the Salmonidae fish family; includes trout and salmon
SALMONID - member of the Salmonidae fish family
SALPS - barrel-shaped, planktonic tunicate
SAPROPHYTIC - descriptive term for an organism that obtains food by absorbing dissolved organic material
SAPROZOIC - feeds on dead or decaying matter
SATIATION - the condition of being full or satisfied after a meal
SCAPULAE - extension of tissue above the oral arms, likely functioning as additional surface area for feeding in a super family (scapulata) of Daktyliophorae, a sub-order of Rhizostomeae
SCLERACTINIA - order of corals known as stony corals which build a skeleton composed of calcium carbonate
SCLERITES - small calcium pieces embedded in the body wall that make up the internal skeleton of Octocorals
SECONDARY PATHOGEN - normally benign agents that become pathogenic because there are environmental issues that reduce the immune system or weaken the fish
SECONDARY PATHOGENS - normally benign agent, which becomes pathogenic with the correct environmental or host factors; also called facultative pathogens
SECONDARY SEXUAL CHARACTERISTICS - physical characteristics that distinguish males from females e.g. the gonopodium in Xiphophorus species and elaborate finnage and colouration in male Siamese fighting fish
SEMAESTOME - a scyphozoan with hollow tentacles and rhopalia off the margin and a single mouth opening that gives rise to four oral arms
SEMELPAROUS - reproductive strategy where animals have a single reproductive episode before death
SEMELPAROUS - reproductive strategy whereby a individuals reproduce only once during their lifetime and then die soon after
SEMINAL FLUID - fluid that surrounds the sperm and prevents it from activating prior to spawning
SENESCENCE - process of deterioration due to age
SEPTAE - vertical partitions which provide support to the mesenteries within the corallite calice
SEPTICAEMIA - an infection whereby large numbers of bacteria enter the blood stream causing a potentially life-threatening disease
SEPTOCOSTAE - the vertical partitions in species with undistinguished walls and distinction between septae and costae cannot be made
SEPTUM - a partition that separates two chambers
SEQUENTIAL HERMAPHRODITES - refers to species that start out as one sex and change to the other later in life; includes both protandrous and protogynous hermaphrodites
SERTOLI CELLS - specialised cells in the testes that form the outer layer of cells in the spermatocyst and are crucial for spermatogenesis. Sertoli cells help to maintain a suitable environment within the spermatocyst; sometimes referred to as ‘nurse cells’ because of their role in protecting the developing sperm
SERTOLI CELLS - specialised cells in the testes that form the outer layer of cells in the spermatocyst and are crucial for spermatogenesis. Sertoli cells help to maintain a suitable environment within the spermatocyst; sometimes referred to as ‘nurse cells’ because of their role in protecting the developing sperm
SERUM - amber coloured fluid that is left after blood coagulates (clots) and separates (or is spun down in a centrifuge)
SEX CHROMOSOMES - chromosomes that carry the genetic information to determine the sex of an individual, and which differ between males and females
SEX HORMONES - refers to the three main hormones of reproduction: testosterone, oestrogen, and progesterone
SEX RATIO - the ratio of males to females in a population
SEX ROLE REVERSAL - the performance of activities or functions by one sex that are usually associated with the opposite sex e.g. male pregnancy in syngnathid species
SEX SEGREGATION - separation of males and females of a species into separate groups, inhabiting different ranges for most of the year, but come together during breeding season
SEXUAL DIMORPHISM - when animals of the same species have a different size or appearance based on their sex
SI UNIT - Système international d'unités, the modern metric system of measurement
SIPHON - tube-shaped organ through which sea water is expelled; this causes cephalopod jet propulsion
SIPHONOGLYPH - a longitudinal flagellated chamber found in most cnidarians in the classes Scyphozoa and Anthozoa, extending from the mouth towards the body cavity
SKULL - all the bones associated with the head region
SLOW TISSUE NECROSIS (STN) - a disease condition that results in necrosis resulting in a slow/chronic death and sloughing of the coral soft tissue; to date no specific etiological agent has been described
SOLENIA - tubular structures which circulate nutrients between polyps within the same colony
SOLITARY CORAL - a stony coral that only has one individual polyp and makes its own skeleton
SOLUTE - a substance dissolved in another substance (the solvent) to create a solution
SOMATIC GROWTH - growth of the body (excluding gonads and gametes)
SP. - species
SPADIX - male nautilus modified reproductive hydrostat (tentacle) used to transfer sperm to females
SPAWNING - refers to the process in which male and female gametes are released, to achieve fertilization; may occur in the water column (oviparous species) or involve the use of an intromittant organ and internal fertilization (viviparous species)
SPAWNING CUES - combination of specific environmental conditions that occur seasonally and pheromones that signal to the same or opposite sex to initiate spawning behaviour
SPECIFIC HEAT - see Heat Capacity
SPECTROPHOTOMETER - instrument that measures the intensity of light of a certain wavelength that passes through a solution. The intensity of light then provides a method for measuring the concentration of a substance in the solution
SPERM DUCT - short tube through which sperm pass from the testes to the genital pore during spawning
SPERM HEAD - region of the sperm that contains the genetic material (DNA)
SPERMATIDS - haploid cells formed by mitosis and meiosis of spermatogonia in the testes; develop into mature sperm
SPERMATOCYST - cyst in the epididymis that holds developing sperm
SPERMATOGENESIS - process of sperm development in the testes
SPERMATOGENIC TUBULES - tubules within the testes that contain the germ cells and are the site of sperm production in male teleosts
SPERMATOGONIA - germ cells in the testes that will develop to become mature sperm through the process of spermatogenesis
SPERMATOZEUGMATA - sperm packages that contain multiple sperm bundled together and suspended within the seminal plasma
SPERMATOZOA - plural of ‘spermatozoon’; the motile male gamete produced in the testes of male animals under the control of the reproductive hormones and which contains the paternal genome; typically abbreviated to ‘sperm’
SPERMIATION - release of sperm from the spermatocyst that occurs when the sertoli cells that make up the spermatocyst separate from each other to release their contents
SPICULES - small needle-like or sharp-pointed structures of calcite or silica that make up the skeleton
SPLENIC - referring to the spleen
SPP. - multiple species
SQUAMOUS - scale-like; refers to layer(s) of flattened cells
STANDARD METABOLIC RATE - the metabolic rate of a fish at rest, fasted for about 12 hours and in a non-stressed condition
STATIC HEAD - refers to the pressure developed and hence to the vertical height that the pump is capable of lifting water
STATIC LIFT - is the height that the water rises (or drops) before arriving at the pump (also called Suction Head)
STATOCYST - cells found within the rhopalium containing multiple statoliths. As the jelly moves the statoliths bounce or deflect off the walls of the statocyst, sending stimulus out to other cells surrounding it
STATOLITH - a calcium sulfate mass or concretion found within a statocyst
STENOHALINE - refers to fish that cannot tolerate wide ranges of salinity i.e. they are only comfortable in a narrow range of salinity; opposite of euryhaline
STENOHALINE - an aquatic organism that is only able to tolerate a narrow range of salinities
STENOHALINE - organisms that cannot tolerate a wide fluctuation in salinity
STENOHALINE - refers to fish that cannot tolerate wide ranges of salinity i.e. they are only comfortable in a narrow range of salinity
STENOTHERMAL - refers to fish that have a very narrow range of temperatures that they can tolerate
STERNUM - the breastbone, of which the keel is part of
STEROID HORMONES - type of hormone that is synthesised from cholesterol in the gonads and adrenal glands via a series of enzymatic reactions
STEROIDOGENESIS - refers to the production of steroids
STOLON - like a plant runner coming off the polyp and capable of starting a new polyp at a distance from the originating polyp
STRESS - physiological state of the body caused by adverse environmental factors; can progress beyond the normal adaptive response of the animal and alter normal function to such an extent that survival may be impacted
STRESS - defined as a state of the body which is beyond the normal adaptive response of the animal and which alters normal function to such an extent that survival may be impacted
STRESSOR - chemical or biological agent, environmental condition, external stimulus that causes stress to an organism
STRIPPING - process of manually collecting sperm or eggs from fish, usually by gently squeezing the abdomen on either side of the mid line moving towards the cloaca
STROBILA - singular, no plural form. Refers to the series of ephyrae connected together while still attached to the polyp
STROBILATION - the process where a polyp undergoes metamorphosis to produce ephyrae
STROKE VOLUME - the volume of blood that passes through the heart with each beat
SUB-CLINICAL DISEASE - there are no recognizable or clinical signs
SUBCUTANEOUS - under the skin
SUBUMBRELLA - the oral or underside of the medusa
SUPERFOETATION - refers to the situation in which multiple batches of embryos at different developmental stages are developing simultaneously within the ovary of viviparous species
SUPERSATURATE - increase gas concentration beyond ambient saturation level
SUPERSATURATION - an increase in the amount of oxygen in water so that the level is greater than 100%
SURFACTANTS - chemicals that assist in the mixing of an oily compound with water
SUSPENDED SOLIDS - a particle that can be trapped using filter paper with pores of 0.45 µm
SWIM BLADDER - see gas bladder
SYMBIOSIS - a long-term association between two different species that usually benefits both
SYMBIOSIS - relationship between two organisms living closely together where neither organism is harmed; one or both may in fact benefit from the relationship
SYMBIOTIC - refers to symbiosis
SYNAPSE - the junction between two neurons; there is a small gap which is crossed by a chemical called a neurotransmitter
SYNCHRONISING CUES - combination of specific environmental conditions and pheromones that signal to the same or opposite sex to initiate the final stages of gamete maturation and ensure that males and females in a potential breeding pair are at the same stage of gamete development
SYNCHRONOUS HERMAPHRODITES - individuals that possess both ovaries and testes that are functional at the same time
SYNONYMIZING - demonstrating that a taxonomic name is a synonym
SYNSACRUM - lumbar and sacral sections of the vertebral column that are fused together
TEMPORARY HARDNESS - the hardness that can be removed from water by boiling (forming a scale in the pot); see Carbonate Hardness
TENTACLE - long, highly contractile, tissue armed with nematocysts typically arranged in sets of eight along the margin of the medusa. They function as the primary method of prey capture for most medusae
TERATOGENIC - medication or agent that causes birth defects
TESTES - organs responsible for sperm production and hormone secretion in male teleosts
TESTICULAR HYDRATION - secretion of fluid into the lumen of the spermatogenic tubules prior to spawning in response to progesterone
TESTOSTERONE - primary hormone of the male reproductive cycle; produced by the Leydig cells in the testes
THECA CELLS - specialised cells within the ovarian follicle that surround the oocyte, and the site of sex hormone production in the ovary of female teleosts
THERMOPLASTIC - a polymer that above a certain temperature becomes pliable and when cooled returns to the solid state
THERMOSTAT - has a sensor which measures the temperature of the water and constantly feeds back to the heater and switches it off when the water reaches the set-point
THERONT - this is the infective stage of the protozoan parasite Ichthyophthirius multifiliis that is free-swimming in the water and then attaches to the fish
THIAMINASES - enzyme found in some fish and shellfish that breaks down thiamine (vitamin B1)
THROMBOCYTE - (platelets) small cells produced in the bone marrow, circulate in the bloodstream and are mainly involved in the clotting process; are also phagocytic in birds
THYMUS - lymphoid organ usually situated in the neck area; produces T-lymphocytes as part of the immune system
TIDAL CYCLES - daily cycle of sea water levels resulting from the gravitational forces of the moon, earth, and sun; can also refer to tidal events that occur annually, for example king tides
TIGHT JUNCTION - physical barrier created by the close association of cells that blocks the passage of molecules; major component of the blood-testis barrier in the spermatocyst, which separates the developing sperm cells from the blood and interstitial tissues of the testes
TOMITE - these are the very small stages of the protozoan parasite Ichthyophthirius multifiliis that reside inside the tomont
TOMONT - this is the stage of the protozoan parasite Ichthyophthirius multifiliis which lives in the substrate and undergoes rapid multiplication so that each tomont then contains many tomites
TORTICOLLIS - twisting of the neck to one side, due to spasm of the muscles
TOTAL DISSOLVED GAS METER - a meter which measures all gases in the water, including nitrogen, oxygen, argon and carbon dioxide
TOTAL DYNAMIC HEAD (TDH) - Static Head + Static Lift + Pipe Friction Head + Form Losses Head
TOTAL HARDNESS - same as GH; the sum of all the divalent ions present in water – expressed as equivalent CaCO3
TOTAL ORGANIC CARBON (TOC) - the amount of carbon bound in organic compounds; it is a non-specific indicator of water quality; increased TOCs indicating poor water quality
TOTAL PUMPING HEAD (TPH) - Static Head + Pipe Friction Head + Form Losses Head
TOWN WATER - the water as supplied by public utilities; also called mains pressure water
TOXAEMIA - toxins circulating in the blood; these toxins have normally been produced by a bacterial infection
TRIGLYCERIDE - three fatty acids attached to a glycerol backbone
TROPHONEMATA - long filaments in the uterus that produce the histotroph (uterine milk)
TROPHONT - the stage of the protozoan parasite Ichthyophthirius multifiliis that lives on the fish
TROPHOTAENIAE - specialised structure in the embryos of some viviparous species that forms a close association with the wall of the ovarian lumen and allows the developing embryo to receive nutrients from the mother during gestation
TUBULAR TESTIS TYPE - form of testicular morphology in which the spermatogenic tubules are interconnected and form a network that opens into the efferent ductules
TURBIDITY - occurs in water due to the presence of suspended particles causing light to be scattered and absorbed; water clarity decreases as the amount of particulate matter increases
ULTRA-LOW NUTRIENT SYSTEMS - reef systems that strive to maintain nitrate between 0 - 1 ppm and phosphorus below 0.03 ppm
UNCINATE PROCESSES - caudal extensions on avian ribs that strengthen the rib cage by overlapping with the rib behind
UNSATURATED - describes fatty acids with a double C=C bond
UREOTELIC - produce urea as the end-product of protein metabolism
URETER - tubes that carry urine away from the kidneys to the cloaca (urodeum)
UTIMATE FACTORS - factors that affect the fitness of the adults to spawn and survival of offspring, such as food availability and the risk of predation
UV - ultraviolet
VAN DER WAAL FORCES - weak and reversible binding that uses electrostatic forces
VANES - the fan shaped blades on the impellor
VASCULAR - refers to blood vessels
VASCULARIZED - many blood vessels in this organ or tissue
VECTOR - an organism that carries, transmits and assists in the spread of the parasite
VEGETATIVE POLE - side of the fertilized oocyte that contains the yolk; located on the opposite side to the animal pole that contains the blastodisc; also known as the vegetal pole
VEIN - blood vessels that return blood from the organs to the heart; have thinner, inelastic walls (mainly composed of collagen) due to the lower blood pressure
VENTRAL - the lower part of the body (underneath)
VERTICAL TRANSMISSION - occurs when a pathogen can pass from the female, via her ovary into the eggs and subsequently the embryos
VESICLE - a blister; small thin-walled sac filled with clear fluid
VIBRIO - a common bacterial pathogen frequently seen in the marine environment and it has also been linked to several coral disease outbreaks around the world
VILLUS (PLURAL VILLI) - long finger-like projections of the intestinal wall into the cavity; they increase the surface area of the intestinal wall
VILLUS (PLURAL VILLI) - microscopic, long finger-like projections of the intestinal wall which extend into the cavity (or lumen) of the intestine
VIRULENCE - ability of a pathogen to infect a host (similar to pathogenicity)
VIRULENCE - ability of a pathogen to infect a host
VITAMINS - organic compounds, required in many metabolic reactions within the body
VITELLINE MEMBRANE - tough egg envelope that encases the oocyte and helps to protect it from damage
VITELLOGENESIS - process of yolk accumulation in the oocyte
VITELLOGENIN - a phospholipoprotein produced by the liver that travels to the ovary via the bloodstream where is it converted into the proteins that make up egg yolk
VITELLOGENIN - a phospholipoprotein produced by the hepatopancreas that travels to the ovary via the bloodstream where is it converted into the proteins that make up egg yolk
VITELLOGENIN - a phospholipoprotein produced by the liver that travels to the ovary via the bloodstream where is it converted into the proteins that make up egg yolk
VIVIPARITY - reproductive mode in which embryos develop inside the body of the parent and receive nutrients from the parent in addition to yolk reserves during gestation
VIVIPAROUS - gives birth to live young
VOLATILE SUSPENDED SOLIDS - is a water quality measure obtained from the loss on ignition of total suspended solids (ignited at 550OC)
VOLT - is the SI unit of electrical potential or electromotive force; symbol for volt is V; it represents the potential difference between two points within a circuit e.g. across a battery
VOLUTE - is a stationary part of the pump that converts the kinetic energy into pressure. The volute is the encased area that receives the water after it leaves the impeller
WATT - is the electrical unit for power - the rate at which work is done; symbol for Watt is W; it is the power produced with a current of one Ampere (A or amp) and the pressure or force of one Volt (V)
WAVE MAKER - pump used to create alternating currents and water flow to replicate water conditions in the ocean
WET PREPARATION - a fresh tissue sample placed on a microscope slide, with some water and a coverslip, and then examined microscopically
WHITE DISEASES - white disease are broadly grouped into “White Band” and “White Plaque” and are associated with bacterial infection including Vibrio spp. and Aurantimonas coralicida respectively
WHITE POX DISEASE - also described as Acroporid Serratiosis has been associated with a motile gram negative rod Serratia marcescens in Elkhorn Corals (Acropora palmata)
YOLK SAC - yolk-filled sac attached to the embryo that provides nutrients in the form of yolk directly to the gut
ZEOLITE - aluminium silicate minerals; natural products with a porous structure that can act as ion exchangers and will remove ammonia and other nitrogenous compounds from water
ZIEHL-NEELSON (ZN) STAIN - special stain used in histopathology sections for acid-fast bacteria such as Mycobacteria and Nocardia
ZOONOSIS - an infectious disease transmitted from a non-human animal to humans
ZOONOSIS (PLURAL ZOONOSES) - a disease that can be transmitted from animals to humans
ZOOXANTHELLA - unicellular dinoflagellates which are considered to be algae and are incorporated in the gastroderm layer of some corals as part of a symbiotic relationship
ZOOXANTHELLA - symbiotic algae associated with corals
ZOOXANTHELLAE - symbiotic dinoflagellate algae present in the cytoplasm of many marine invertebrates
ZOOXANTHELLATE - corals which depend on a symbiotic relationship with zooxanthellae for nutrition
ZYGOTE - stage of embryo development immediately following fertilization; the diploid zygote is formed by the fusion of the haploid male and female gametes
