DIPODOMYS ORDI Meaning and
Definition
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Dipodomys ordi, commonly known as the Ord's kangaroo rat, is a small mammal species belonging to the rodent family Heteromyidae. Found exclusively in North America, it inhabits arid regions, including desert and shrubland ecosystems. The species is named after American biologist Michael S. Ord, who extensively studied kangaroo rats.
Ord's kangaroo rat is characterized by its distinctive physical features. It has a robust body structure, ranging in size from 5 to 8 inches (13 to 20 cm) in length, with a relatively long tail measuring about 6 to 10 inches (15 to 25 cm). The fur coloration of this species varies, typically ranging from buff to pale yellow-brown, providing effective camouflage in its natural habitat.
Adapted to survive in arid environments, Dipodomys ordi possesses specialized physiological and behavioral traits. It has well-developed hind legs, allowing for efficient bipedal hopping, similar to a kangaroo, which aids in quick maneuverability and escaping potential predators. These kangaroo rats are nocturnal, enabling them to avoid heat during the day and exploit cooler temperatures at night. They rely primarily on seeds and vegetation for their diet, acquiring most of their water from their food, reducing their need for external water sources.
Due to its restricted distribution and specialized habitat requirements, Ord's kangaroo rat's population is susceptible to various threats, including habitat loss, degradation, and fragmentation caused by human activities such as agriculture and urban development. Conservation efforts are crucial to ensure the long-term survival of this species, including the preservation and restoration of its natural arid ecosystems.
Common Misspellings for DIPODOMYS ORDI
- sipodomys ordi
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Etymology of DIPODOMYS ORDI
The word "Dipodomys ordi" is a scientific binomial name used to refer to a species of pocket gopher native to North America. The etymology of this name can be broken down as follows:
1. Dipodomys: The genus name "Dipodomys" derives from two Greek words. "Diplo" means "double" or "two", and "dome" means "house". This name refers to the characteristic cheek pouches found in this genus, which are used to carry food and materials.
2. Ordi: The specific epithet "ordi" is a Latin term that has been named in honor of the American paleontologist Othniel Charles Marsh. Marsh was a prominent scientist who made significant contributions to the study of North American fossils during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
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