ARCTIC LEMMING Meaning and
Definition
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Arctic lemming, scientifically known as Lemmus, is a small rodent species native to the Arctic tundra regions in North America and Eurasia. It is a member of the Lemmini tribe within the family Cricetidae. The Arctic lemming is comprised of multiple subspecies, including the North American brown lemming (Lemmus trimucronatus) and the Eurasian brown lemming (Lemmus sibiricus).
These small mammals exhibit several distinctive characteristics. They have a plump body with short legs, round ears, and a short, hairy tail. Their dense fur coat changes color seasonally, from brown or gray during summer to white during winter, offering excellent camouflage against their snowy surroundings. Standing at around 10-20 centimeters in length and weighing between 30 to 112 grams, Arctic lemmings are well-adapted for life in extreme cold conditions.
Arctic lemmings are herbivorous, primarily feeding on grasses, sedges, and other low-lying vegetation. They have a high reproductive rate, with females typically giving birth to large litters of up to 8 to 12 offspring. Lemmings are also known for their cyclical population fluctuations, with periods of rapid increase followed by sudden declines.
These small rodents play a key role in ecosystem dynamics, serving as a crucial prey species for numerous predators in the Arctic, including snowy owls, arctic foxes, and ermines. Given their ecological significance and remarkable adaptations to the harsh Arctic environment, Arctic lemmings have captured the attention of scientists and researchers studying the Arctic ecosystem and its intricate food webs.
Etymology of ARCTIC LEMMING
The word "Arctic" derives from the Greek word "arktikos", which means "of or pertaining to the bear", as the Arctic was believed to be the region near the constellation Ursa Major (the Great Bear).
The word "lemming" originated from the Norwegian language, specifically from the Old Norse word "lemr" which means "mate". It referred to a small mouse-like animal found in Norway.
Therefore, the term "Arctic lemming" combines the geographic descriptor "Arctic" with the name of the small rodent "lemming" to specifically indicate the species of lemmings residing in the Arctic region.
