HERBIVOROUS Meaning and
Definition
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Herbivorous is an adjective that describes an organism or animal that primarily consumes plants or plant-based materials as its main source of sustenance. The word is derived from the Latin words "herba" meaning "grass" or "plant" and "vorare" meaning "to devour" or "to eat greedily."
Herbivores can be found in various ecological niches, such as forests, grasslands, and aquatic habitats. They have adapted to consuming a wide range of plant parts, including leaves, stems, fruits, seeds, and roots. Some examples of herbivorous animals include cows, sheep, rabbits, deer, and elephants. Insects such as caterpillars and grasshoppers are also considered herbivores.
The digestive systems of herbivores are specialized for breaking down plant matter, which can be more difficult to digest compared to animal flesh. They often possess specialized teeth or beaks to efficiently chew or grind plant material. Additionally, herbivorous animals may have an elongated digestive tract or rely on symbiotic relationships with microorganisms that aid in the breakdown of cellulose, a complex carbohydrate found in plants.
Herbivory plays an essential role in ecological communities, as herbivores are often a critical link in the food chain. They help control plant populations, affect the structure and composition of ecosystems, and can influence the evolution of plant defense mechanisms.
In summary, herbivorous refers to organisms that primarily consume plants or plant-based materials as their main source of sustenance, and play a crucial role in various ecosystems.
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Feeding on herbs or vegetables, vegetarian.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
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Eating or living on herbs or vegetable substances.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Top Common Misspellings for HERBIVOROUS *
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Other Common Misspellings for HERBIVOROUS
Etymology of HERBIVOROUS
The word herbivorous comes from the Latin word herbivorus, which is a combination of two Latin roots: herba meaning herb or vegetation, and vorare meaning to eat. Therefore, herbivorous literally means plant-eating.
Similar spelling words for HERBIVOROUS
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