View example sentences, synonyms and word forms for Spiracle.
Spiracle meaning
A pore or opening used (especially by arthropods and some fish) for respiration. | The blowhole of a whale, dolphin or other similar species. | Any small aperture or vent for air or other fluid.
Example sentences (5)
A modified slit called a spiracle lies just behind the eye, which assists the shark with taking in water during respiration and plays a major role in bottom–dwelling sharks.
A spiracular chamber is present, but the spiracle is closed and never opens during development.
Chimaeras differ from other cartilagenous fish, having lost both the spiracle and the fifth gill slit.
In slow-moving or bottom-dwelling species, especially among skates and rays, the spiracle may be enlarged, and the fish breathes by sucking water through this opening, instead of through the mouth.
The pleura are usually small or hidden in some species, with each pleuron having a single spiracle.