The word "Altrices" is a plural noun that refers to the mothers or foster-mothers of birds. It is pronounced as /ælˈtraɪsiːz/ in IPA phonetic transcription, with the stress on the second syllable. The initial "a" sound is pronounced as in "cat," while the "t" and "r" sounds are both aspirated. The ending "-ices" is pronounced with a long "i" sound followed by the "s" sound, and is used to denote a plural noun ending in "-ix" or "-ex."
Altrices is a Latin word that refers to a group of organisms that exhibit parental care, particularly in relation to their offspring. The term is commonly used in the field of zoology and biology to describe animals that nurture and care for their young until they are capable of independent survival.
The concept of altrices is often used in contrast to "precocial," which describes organisms that are relatively self-sufficient at birth or hatching. Altricial species are characterized by their underdeveloped physical and behavioral traits at birth, requiring extensive care from their parents in order to survive. This care can include feeding, grooming, protection, and teaching of essential skills.
Altrices can be found in various animal groups, including birds, mammals, reptiles, and even some insects. For example, birds such as pigeons, chickens, and owls are considered altricial because their young are born with closed eyes, lack feathers, and are unable to move or feed themselves. Similarly, mammals like humans, dogs, and rodents are also considered altricial as their offspring are born in a relatively helpless state and require parental care to meet their basic needs.
Understanding the concept of altrices is crucial in studying and analyzing the behaviors and adaptations of organisms within their respective ecosystems. It provides insights into the strategies employed by parental animals to ensure the survival and successful development of their offspring.
The word Altrices is derived from Latin. It comes from the Latin verb alere, meaning to nourish or to rear. In Latin, altrices is the feminine plural form of the noun altrix, which translates to nurse or foster mother.