What Greek words form the root of the genus name Chaetodon?

Answer

chaite ("bristle") and odous ("tooth")

The scientific genus name, Chaetodon, is constructed from two specific Greek roots. The first component, 'chaite,' translates to 'bristle' or 'hair,' and the second component, 'odous,' means 'tooth.' This combination reflects a key physical characteristic observed across many fish belonging to this group, namely the presence of fine, bristle-like teeth that are visible upon detailed physical inspection. This etymological choice provides a fundamental clue regarding the morphology of the members within this large genus.

What Greek words form the root of the genus name Chaetodon?
classificationmarine lifefishButterflyfish