What is "hyomandibula"

n. (context biology English) The bony or cartilaginous portion of the upper hyoid arch in some fish

The hyomandibula, commonly referred to as hyomandibular [bone] (, from , "upsilon-shaped" , and Latin: mandibula, "jawbone") is a set of bones that is found in the hyoid region in most fishes. It usually plays a role in suspending the jaws and/or operculum ( teleostomi only). It is commonly suggested that in tetrapods (land animals), the hyomandibula evolved into the columella ( stapes).