Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
mysticete
noun
/ˈmɪstɪˌsiːt/
Definition
A group of large marine mammals known as baleen whales, characterized by their filter-feeding system and absence of teeth.
Examples
- The blue whale, the largest animal on Earth, is a type of mysticete.
- Mysticetes are distinguished from odontocetes, or toothed whales, by their filter-feeding system.
- The humpback whale, known for its acrobatic breaching, is another member of the mysticete family.
Meaning
Mysticetes are a diverse group of baleen whales that include species like blue whales and humpback whales. They are known for their incredible size and unique feeding mechanisms.
Synonyms
- Baleen whale
- Filter-feeding whale
