Solution
Related Formula
Class Cyclostomata: Circular sucking mouth without jaws + No paired fins/scales + 6--15 pairs gill slits + Ectoparasites
Core Logic
The given features—cartilaginous endoskeleton, ectoparasitic nature with circular sucking mouth, absence of paired fins and scales, and presence of 6–15 pairs (7 pairs in this specific example) of gill slits—are defining characteristics of Class Cyclostomata. Petromyzon (Lamprey) belongs to Cyclostomata.
Step 1: Option Verification
- Exocoetus (Flying fish) arrow Osteichthyes (scales and paired fins present)
- Branchiostoma (Amphioxus) arrow Cephalochordata
- Petromyzon (Lamprey) arrow Cyclostomata (matches all given characteristics)
- Scoliodon (Dog fish) arrow Chondrichthyes (scales and paired fins present)
Pattern Recognition
Sees: "circular sucking mouth", "no scales/paired fins", "ectoparasitic". Shortcut: Cyclostomata arrow Petromyzon (lamprey).
Chapter Mix
Class 11 Biology: Animal Kingdom