Gaper

Gaper is a term that can refer to several different concepts depending on the context. Below are the primary uses of the term:

Zoology

In zoology, a gaper is a common name for certain species of fish and birds that are known for their distinctive gaping behavior.

Fish

In the context of fish, the term "gaper" often refers to species within the family Serranidae, which includes groupers and sea basses. These fish are known for their large mouths, which they use to capture prey.

Birds

Among birds, the term "gaper" can refer to species that exhibit a gaping behavior, such as the European Starling (Sturnus vulgaris). These birds are known to open their beaks wide to catch insects and other small prey.

Medicine

In medicine, a gaper can refer to a condition known as trismus, commonly referred to as "lockjaw." This condition is characterized by the inability to open the mouth fully due to muscle spasms.

Culture

In Dutch culture, a gaper is a traditional figurehead used to signify a pharmacy. These figures often depict a Moorish man with an open mouth, symbolizing the act of taking medicine.

See Also

• Serranidae
• European Starling
• Trismus
• Pharmacy