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Table 1 Terminology used to define fins for the scoring of characters among taxa

From: Fin modules: an evolutionary perspective on appendage disparity in basal vertebrates

Terms used in this paper

Definition

Other terms that have been used

Median ventral fin

An unpaired ventral finfold that can be inserted either anteriorly (e.g., some Myxiniformes) or posteriorly to the anus, and anteriorly to the anal fin when it is present (e.g., some Stomiidae, Paralepididae and Phallostethidae (Teleostei))

Preanal finfold (or skinfold), ventral adipose fin

Ventrolateral paired fins

Ventrolaterally positioned fins or fin supports placed along the trunk that are generally long-based and that are of uncertain homology to the pectoral and/or pelvic fins

Ventrolateral finfolds, intermediate spines, prepelvic spines

Pectoral fins

Short-based paired fins inserted on the thorax close to the gill openings

Suprabranchial fins, paired flaps, pectoral flaps, pectoral swimming appendages

Pelvic fins

Ventrally inserted short-based paired fins, always located anteriorly to the anus/cloaca

Ventral fins

Dorsal fin

Fins located on the dorsal midline of the body, between the head and the tail

 

Anal fin

Fins located on the ventral midline between the anus (or cloaca) and the tail

 

Adipose fin

A small non-rayed fin usually located medially between the dorsal and caudal fins; this median fin is present among several groups of ostariophysans and basal euteleosts

Fatty fin, dorsal organ, dorsal filament

Caudal fin

The caudal fin is located at the extremity of the tail

Tail fin