EUARCHONTOGLIRES Meaning and
Definition
-
Euarchontoglires is a taxonomic group that encompasses two major mammalian lineages, namely the euarchonts and the glires. This grouping was proposed based on genetic evidence and shared anatomical features among these two mammal groups. Euarchontoglires is characterized by the presence of specific genetic markers, which include similarities in DNA sequences and chromosomal rearrangements.
The euarchonts are a diverse group of mammals that include primates and tree shrews. Primates, including humans, monkeys, and apes, possess binocular vision, grasping hands, and large brains. Tree shrews, on the other hand, are small, squirrel-like mammals found in various tropical regions and are known for their arboreal lifestyle.
The glires consist of two main groups: rodents and lagomorphs. Rodents constitute the largest order of mammals, comprising animals such as mice, rats, squirrels, and beavers. They are characterized by a pair of continuously growing incisors in each jaw. Lagomorphs, on the other hand, include rabbits, hares, and pikas. They possess two pairs of upper incisors and are well-adapted for a herbivorous diet.
Euarchontoglires is considered a superorder, which denotes a higher level of classification within the mammalian taxonomy. This grouping is primarily used to understand the evolutionary relationships and shared characteristics between these two distinct lineages. The term "euarchontoglires" is derived from the combination of the Greek words "eu" meaning "true", "archon" meaning "ruler", and "glires" meaning "rodents". Together, euarchontoglires represents a diverse group of mammals with
Etymology of EUARCHONTOGLIRES
The word "Euarchontoglires" is a scientific term used in biology to describe a clade, or a grouping of related organisms. It is a combination of two Greek words - "eu" meaning "true" or "good", "archonto" meaning "ruler" or "leader", and "glires" meaning "rodents".
The term "Euarchontoglires" was coined by molecular phylogeneticists in the late 1990s to describe a group of mammals that includes primates (such as humans), rodents (like mice and rats), rabbits, and tree shrews. These organisms were believed to share a common ancestor based on genetic similarities, and thus, a new clade was established.
The name Euarchontoglires emphasizes the idea that these animals are true or good rulers/leaders within the mammalian evolutionary tree, given their significant presence and ecological importance.
