Rupture of cells in a solution as a result of a sudden reduction in osmotic pressure. Can cause severe issues in fishes when the chemical composition of the water changes rapidly, e.g., during or following a pH crash.

Composed of, containing, or resembling bone; bony.

Small bone, especially any of the three small bones in the inner ear of vertebrates.

The natural process of bone formation.

To change into bony or become bony.

Fish of the superorder Ostariophysi, members of which are characterised by possession of a Weberian apparatus, i.e., the anterior four or five vertebrae are modified as a protective casing for the bony ossicles which connect the inner ear and swim bladder. The order contains such orders as Cypriniformes, Characiformes, Gymnotiformes, and Siluriformes.

Superclass of fishes possessing bony, as opposed to cartilaginous, skeletons. Also known as bony fishes.

The bony part of the skull.

Study of the structure and function of bones.

Any member of the crustacean class Ostracoda.

Class of crustacean, sometimes referred to as seed shrimp, characterised by possession of a bivalve-like protective carapace. Found in both freshwater and marine environments, and sometimes used as food for small fishes in aquaria.

Calcareous structures contained within the inner ear of most fishes, functioning to provide a sense of balance in a similar way to the inner ear in humans, as well as aiding in hearing. Also known as ear bones, ear stones or statoliths. Accumulate layers of calcium carbonate and gelatinous matrix as a fish ages, these forming […]

The process of outcrossing or offspring resulting from it.

A cross between relatively unrelated individuals; the introduction of unrelated genetic material into a breeding line. Often used to raise or maintain genetic diversity.

In phylogenetics, a group of organisms serving as a reference and comparison to the groups being studied. Opposite of ingroup.

Plural of ovum.

To add more fishes to an aquarium than it is capable of maintaining in a biological or physical sense.

Producing eggs which hatch outside the body, as in most fishes.

To deposit an egg during a spawning event,

Tubular structure used to deposit eggs in some fishes. Formed by an extension of the genital opening and usually concealed but sometimes becomes visible prior to spawning. Also referred to as the genital papilla.