The word "didelphid" refers to a family of marsupials commonly known as opossums. The spelling of the word is derived from the scientific name for the family, Didelphimorphia. The pronunciation of "didelphid" is often transcribed as ˈdaɪdɛlfɪd, with the emphasis on the first syllable and the "d" being pronounced as a voiced dental stop. The "ph" in "didelphid" is pronounced as an "f" sound, and the final "id" is stressed before the ending "d" sound.
Didelphids are small to medium-sized marsupials that belong to the family Didelphidae. They are commonly known as opossums or possums and are native to the Americas. The word "Didelphid" is derived from the Greek words "di" meaning two and "delphus" meaning womb, referring to the anatomical characteristic of the female didelphids having a divided uterus.
Didelphids are characterized by their unique reproductive system, which involves the birth of relatively undeveloped offspring that seek refuge in their mother's pouch to complete their growth. This pouch, known as a marsupium, is one of the prominent features of didelphids, distinguishing them from other mammals. They possess a prehensile tail and are typically arboreal, using their limb structure and grasping ability to navigate trees and other elevated habitats.
Didelphids have a diverse diet that primarily consists of fruits, insects, small vertebrates, and sometimes even carrion. They are adaptable and can be found in a range of habitats including forests, grasslands, and urban areas. Due to their omnivorous feeding habits, they play a crucial role in controlling pest populations and seed dispersal.
The family Didelphidae encompasses a wide range of species, with opossums being the most well-known representatives. These species exhibit varied physical appearances and behaviors, but they all share certain shared characteristics, such as a marsupium, pentadactyl limbs, and a dental formula featuring numerous incisors, canines, premolars, and molars.
Overall, didelphids are fascinating creatures that have adapted to various environments, making them an important component of the ecosystems in which they reside.
The word "Didelphid" originates from the family name Didelphidae, which refers to the order of marsupials known as Didelphimorphia, commonly known as the "opossums". The term "Didelphid" is derived from the Greek words "didelphys", meaning "double-wombed", and "idos", denoting "resemblance". This name was given due to the characteristic reproductive system observed in these marsupials, where they possess a split two-horned uterus.