FAMILY HYSTRICIDAE Meaning and
Definition
-
Family Hystricidae, commonly known as the Hystricidae family, refers to a taxonomic family of large, terrestrial rodents. These rodents are commonly referred to as Old World porcupines and are characterized by their spiny quills or spines that cover their bodies, providing them with an effective defense mechanism against potential predators.
The Hystricidae family is a part of the suborder Hystricomorpha, which also includes other rodent families such as guinea pigs, capybaras, and chinchillas. Old World porcupines are primarily found in Africa, Europe, and Asia, inhabiting diverse habitats ranging from forests to grasslands, and even rocky areas.
These animals have a robust body structure, with stocky limbs and a rounded head. They possess long, bristly hairs mixed with sharp quills that can reach lengths of up to 30 centimeters (12 inches). These quills are made of keratin, the same material found in human hair and nails, and can be easily detached and used as a defense mechanism. When threatened, the porcupine can erect its quills, creating a spiky barrier that discourages predators from attacking.
Old World porcupines are primarily herbivores, feeding on a wide range of plant material including bark, roots, fruits, and leaves. They are typically nocturnal animals, spending most of their days resting in burrows or trees. These solitary creatures are known for their relatively slow movement and gentle disposition.
The Family Hystricidae is highly regarded for its ecological significance, as these rodents play a vital role in seed dispersal and habitat maintenance within their respective ecosystems. Despite their quilled appearance, many of the Old World porcupine species are unfortunately
Common Misspellings for FAMILY HYSTRICIDAE
- damily hystricidae
- camily hystricidae
- vamily hystricidae
- gamily hystricidae
- tamily hystricidae
- ramily hystricidae
- fzmily hystricidae
- fsmily hystricidae
- fwmily hystricidae
- fqmily hystricidae
- fanily hystricidae
- fakily hystricidae
- fajily hystricidae
- famuly hystricidae
- famjly hystricidae
- famkly hystricidae
- famoly hystricidae
- fam9ly hystricidae
- fam8ly hystricidae
Etymology of FAMILY HYSTRICIDAE
The word Family Hystricidae originates from two sources: family and Hystricidae.
The term family stems from the Latin word familia, meaning household or family. It was first adopted in English in the early 15th century and refers to a group of related individuals, united by blood, marriage, or adoption, who live together and share resources.
The word Hystricidae refers to a family of rodents commonly known as Old World porcupines. This term derives from the scientific Latin name Hystricidae, which is used to classify this particular group of animals. The term Hystricidae itself comes from the Greek word hustrix, meaning porcupine.
