Lamprey

Lamprey, LAM pree, is any of a group of fish with long, eellike bodies. Scientists consider lampreys among the least developed vertebrates (animals with backbones). Unlike most other fishes, a lamprey has no bony skeleton. It possesses a backbonelike notochord made of rubbery tissue called cartilage. A lamprey has fins on its back but not on its sides. Its round mouth has no jaws but can create strong suction. Adults of some species (kinds) of lampreys attach themselves to other fishes by… More »