| rytina | <zoology> A genus of large edentulous sirenians, allied to the dugong and manatee, including but one species (R. Stelleri). Synonym: Steller's sea cow. Alternative forms: Rhytina. It is now extinct, but was formerly abundant at Behring's Island, near Behring's Straits. It was twenty-five feet or more in length, with a thick, blackish, naked skin. The last were killed in 1768 for their oil and flesh. Origin: NL, fr. Gr. A wrinkle. Source: Websters Dictionary (01 Mar 1998) |
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