V

vagrant— An animal occurring outside of its normal distribution.

valve— One of the segments into which a capsule or pod separates, as in the Pea and Mustard families.

vascular— The higher plants, having specialized conducting systems that include xylem (inner two wood elements) and phloem (outer of two tissues).

vegetative reproduction— In seed plants, reproduction by means other than seeds. In other organisms, reproduction by vegetative spores, fragmentation, or division of the somatic cells (cells of the body that compose tissues, organs, and other parts of the individual). Unless a mutation occurs, each daughter cell or individual is genetically identical with its parent. (See also clones .)

ventral— Pertains to the underside, or belly, of an organism.

ventral (pelvic) fins— Paired fins located ventrally anterior to the anus.

vermiculations— Wavy, wormlike markings on the back of Eastern Brook Trout (char).

vermiform— Worm-shaped or wormlike.

volcanic tuff— Fine detritus of volcanic rock fused by heat.

voracious— Having a very large appetite.