gill raker

[ gil ]

noun

1. (in fish) one of a series of stiff projections along the inner margins of the branchial arches that prevent food particles from passing through the branchial clefts.

Word History and Origins

Origin of gill raker¹

First recorded in 1875–80

Example Sentences

More worryingly, gill raker plates have been marketed as an aid for lactating mothers.

From Time

One recent fad has been for manta ray gill raker plates — the thin filaments these majestic creatures use to filter food from seawater.

From Time

The researchers found that some of the gill raker trade is conducted by the same networks responsible for the devastating trade in shark fins, which have turned to rays for additional profits as worldwide shark populations decline.

From Scientific American

“We need an immediate moratorium on gill raker trade, and measures for complete protection to some populations and to reduce fishing pressure for others.”

From New York Times