Arvicola Amphibius, also known as the European Water Vole, is a rodent that is native to Europe and western Asia. Its name is derived from Latin, where "arvicola" means "plow mouse" and "amphibius" means "living both on land and in water." The phonetic transcription of the word "Arvicola" is /ɑː(ɹ)ˈvɪkələ/ and "Amphibius" is /æmˈfɪbiəs/. The correct spelling of this name is important for scientists and researchers to accurately communicate about this species.
Arvicola amphibius, commonly known as the European water vole, is a semi-aquatic rodent species belonging to the family Cricetidae. It is native to Europe and inhabits various wetland habitats such as rivers, ditches, ponds, and marshes.
The European water vole has a compact, stocky body with short legs and a short tail. It has dense brown fur that provides excellent insulation in its aquatic environment. The average length of an adult water vole ranges from 15 to 20 centimeters (6 to 8 inches), excluding the tail, which measures around 6 to 8 centimeters (2 to 3 inches). They weigh between 150 and 300 grams (5 to 10 ounces).
These rodents are skilled swimmers, with partially webbed hind feet and a waterproof coat that allows them to navigate through water with ease. They are primarily herbivorous, feeding on a variety of grasses, reeds, sedges, and other aquatic vegetation. European water voles are known for their impressive burrowing abilities, creating complex networks of burrows along the banks of water bodies.
Arvicola amphibius is a solitary, territorial species, rarely forming social groups. They are active both during the day and night, exhibiting peak activity around dawn and dusk. Breeding typically occurs between March and September, with females giving birth to litters of 2 to 8 young after a gestation period of around 3 weeks.
Despite being a widespread species, the European water vole has faced population declines in some areas due to habitat loss and predation by non-native species such as the American mink. Conservation efforts are underway to protect their habitat and prevent further declines in their population.
The etymology of the term "Arvicola amphibius" is derived from Latin, with each word having a separate origin.
1. Arvicola: The word "arvicola" comes from Latin, where "arva" means "fields" and "cola" means "inhabitant". Hence, "arvicola" translates to "inhabitant of the fields".
2. Amphibius: The word "amphibius" is also of Latin origin, derived from the Greek word "amphibios", which consists of "amphi" meaning "both" and "bios" meaning "life". Therefore, "amphibius" means "living both in water and on land".
Together, "Arvicola amphibius" refers to a species of mammal commonly known as the European water vole, which is well-adapted to life in both terrestrial and aquatic environments.