ALTRICIAL Meaning and
Definition
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Altricial is an adjective used to describe certain animal species with underdeveloped young at birth that require parental care and assistance for an extended period before becoming independent. Altricial species are characterized by helpless and fragile offspring that are typically blind, hairless, and unable to move or feed themselves at birth. They rely entirely on their parents for survival and undergo a gradual process of growth and maturation before they can fend for themselves.
In altricial species, the parents are responsible for providing essential necessities such as food, protection, and warmth to their young. This parental assistance is crucial for the survival and development of the altricial offspring. As time passes, the young gradually acquire physical abilities and develop cognitive functions, reaching maturity and independence.
Examples of altricial animals include birds such as most songbirds, raptors, and pigeons, as well as many mammals like humans, dogs, cats, and rodents. In contrast, species that produce relatively independent and well-developed young at birth are known as precocial.
Understanding the concept of altricial is important in fields such as biology, zoology, and ecology, as it helps to classify and categorize different animals based on their reproductive strategies and the care they provide to their offspring.
Common Misspellings for ALTRICIAL
Etymology of ALTRICIAL
The word "altricial" comes from the Latin word "altrix", which means "nurse" or "foster mother". It is derived from the verb "alere", meaning "to nourish" or "to rear". "Altrix" refers to an animal that cares for and feeds its offspring. The suffix "-cial" means "of or pertaining to", so the word "altricial" describes animals that are born in an undeveloped, helpless state and require extensive care from their parents.
Similar spelling words for ALTRICIAL
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