DIGITIGRADE MAMMAL Meaning and
Definition
-
A digitigrade mammal refers to a specific classification of mammals that walk on their toes, with the majority of weight being supported by the digits or toes rather than the entire foot. The word "digitigrade" is derived from Latin, wherein "digitus" represents "finger" or "toe," and "gredere" means "to walk" or "to step."
In digitigrade mammals, such as dogs, cats, and many other carnivores, the tarsal bones (ankle bones) are elevated, resulting in a higher position of the heel relative to the ground. This anatomical feature leads to a walking style wherein the heel never touches the ground while the animal is in motion. Instead, the animal walks and runs on its toes or digits, allowing for increased speed, agility, and maneuverability.
By relying on the flexible and elongated metatarsal and metacarpal bones, digitigrade mammals distribute their weight primarily through their toes. This form of locomotion allows for accurate movement control, swift acceleration, and the ability to leap or pounce rapidly.
Digitigrade mammals possess a distinct evolutionary advantage as their limb structure reduces the amount of energy expended during locomotion and permits a more heightened sense of the environment. They are well adapted for various habitats, enabling them to navigate diverse terrains ranging from soft soils to rugged landscapes with relative ease.
Understanding the term "digitigrade mammal" contributes to the broader knowledge of mammalian locomotion and animal adaptations, aiding in scientific classifications and studies focused on comparative anatomy and behavior.
Common Misspellings for DIGITIGRADE MAMMAL
- sigitigrade mammal
- xigitigrade mammal
- cigitigrade mammal
- figitigrade mammal
- rigitigrade mammal
- eigitigrade mammal
- dugitigrade mammal
- djgitigrade mammal
- dkgitigrade mammal
- dogitigrade mammal
- d9gitigrade mammal
- d8gitigrade mammal
- difitigrade mammal
- divitigrade mammal
- dibitigrade mammal
- dihitigrade mammal
- diyitigrade mammal
- dititigrade mammal
- digutigrade mammal
Etymology of DIGITIGRADE MAMMAL
The term "digitigrade mammal" is derived from the Latin roots "digitus", meaning "finger" or "toe", and "gradus", meaning "a step" or "a walk". In this context, "digitigrade" refers to the way certain mammals walk on their toes or digits, such as cats, dogs, or raccoons. These animals bear weight only on their fingertips and toes, while their heels are elevated. The word "digitigrade" is often used in zoology and anatomy to describe this specific walking pattern.
