lampreys

Lamprey \Lam"prey\ (l[a^]m"pr[y^]), n.; pl. {Lampreys}
   (l[a^]m"pr[i^]z). [OE. lampreie, F. lamproie, LL. lampreda,
   lampetra, from L. lambere to lick + petra rock, stone. The
   lampreys are so called because they attach themselves with
   their circular mouths to rocks and stones, whence they are
   also called {rocksuckers}. See {Lap} to drink, {Petrify}.]
   (Zool.)
   An eel-like marsipobranch of the genus {Petromyzon}, and
   allied genera; called also {lamprey eel} and {lamper eel}.
   The lampreys have a round, sucking mouth, without jaws, but
   set with numerous minute teeth, and one to three larger teeth
   on the palate (see Illust. of {Cyclostomi}). There are seven
   small branchial openings on each side. [Written also
   {lamprel}, and {lampron}.]
   [1913 Webster]

   Note: The common or sea lamprey of America and Europe
         ({Petromyzon marinus}), which in spring ascends rivers
         to spawn, is considered excellent food by many, and is
         sold as a market fish in some localities. The smaller
         river lampreys mostly belong to the genus
         {Ammoc[oe]les}, or {Lampetra}, as {Ammoc[oe]les
         fluviatilis}, of Europe, and {Ammoc[oe]les
         [ae]pypterus} of America. All lampreys attach
         themselves to other fishes, as parasites, by means of
         the suckerlike mouth.
         [1913 Webster]