How Do You Spell BOMBINATORIDAE?

Pronunciation: [bˈɒmbɪnˌatɔːɹˌɪdiː] (IPA)

Bombinatoridae is a term used for a family of frogs commonly known as fire-bellied toads. It is pronounced as /bɒmbɪnətɔːrɪdi/, with each syllable clearly enunciated. The word is made up of two parts, 'bombin-' and '-toridae'. The first part comes from the Latin word 'bombinare' meaning to hum or buzz, while the suffix '-toridae' refers to a family of animals. Together, they form the scientific name of this distinct frog family, with their signature bright red or yellow markings on the underside of their bodies.

BOMBINATORIDAE Meaning and Definition

1. Bombinatoridae is a taxonomic family of small, semi-aquatic frogs belonging to the order Anura. These amphibians are commonly known as fire-bellied toads due to the bright coloration on their undersides. The word "bombinatoridae" is derived from the Latin word "bombina," meaning "to buzz" or "to hum," and the suffix "-idae," which is used in zoology to indicate a family name.

   Members of the Bombinatoridae family are typically found in Europe and Asia, inhabiting various wetland habitats such as swamps, ponds, and marshes. They are characterized by their small size, ranging from 4 to 10 centimeters in length, and their distinct coloration, with vibrant patterns and bright red or orange patches on their bellies.

   These frogs have a unique defensive mechanism where they display their bright undersides when threatened, to warn predators of their toxic or unpalatable nature. The vibrant coloration acts as a warning signal to predators, indicating that they possess potent skin toxins or are distasteful.

   The diet of Bombinatoridae primarily consists of invertebrates, such as insects, spiders, and worms, which they capture using their long, sticky tongues. They are also known for their aquatic breeding habits, laying gelatinous egg masses that develop into tadpoles in the water. The tadpoles then undergo metamorphosis to become terrestrial adults.

   Overall, Bombinatoridae is a diverse family of small frogs with distinctive coloration and unique defense mechanisms. They are an important part of wetland ecosystems, contributing to insect control and serving as indicators of ecosystem health.

Etymology of BOMBINATORIDAE

The word "Bombinatoridae" is derived from the Greek word "bombos" meaning "buzz" or "hum", and the Latin word "torquis" meaning "collar". The suffix "-idae" in taxonomy is used to indicate a family in the classification system.

Therefore, the name "Bombinatoridae" refers to a family of frogs known as bombinatorids, which are characterized by their ability to produce humming or buzzing sounds during mating rituals.