Myxini

Definition

Myxini, commonly known as hagfishes, are jawless marine vertebrates. They are characterized by their elongated, eel-like bodies and their ability to produce copious amounts of slime as a defense mechanism.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Myxini lack vertebrae but are still considered vertebrates due to their evolutionary lineage.
2. They have a unique feeding method involving the use of tooth-like structures made of keratin.
3. Hagfishes can tie themselves into knots to escape predators or remove slime from their bodies.
4. They primarily feed on dead or dying fish and invertebrates, making them important scavengers in marine ecosystems.
5. Myxini possess a notochord throughout their lives, which serves as a support structure.

Review Questions

• What is the primary defense mechanism of Myxini?
• How do Myxini differ from other vertebrates in terms of skeletal structure?
• What role do Myxini play in marine ecosystems?

Related terms

Agnatha:

Jawless fishes including both Myxini (hagfishes) and Petromyzontida (lampreys).

Notochord: A flexible rod-like structure that provides support in all embryonic and some adult chordate animals.

Keratin: A type of protein that forms structures such as hair, nails, and the tooth-like structures in Myxini.