MEGACEROS Meaning and
Definition
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Megaceros, derived from the Greek words "mega" meaning large or great, and "ceros" meaning horn, is a genus of extinct deer that lived during the Pleistocene epoch. It is commonly referred to as the "Irish elk" or "giant deer" due to its remarkable size and the presence of spectacular, elaborately branched antlers.
Megaceros is characterized by its enormous size, with males reaching heights of up to 6.9 feet at the shoulder, making it one of the largest deer species known to have existed. Its most distinctive feature is its impressive antlers, which could span up to 12 feet in width and had more than a dozen tines on each side. These antlers were used for display and combat during mating season and likely served as a visual indicator of male fitness and dominance.
This herbivorous mammal had a broad and flat face adapted for chewing tough vegetation and a slender body with long legs, enabling it to navigate through dense forests. Megaceros is believed to have primarily inhabited forested regions and wetlands, feeding on a varied diet of leaves, grasses, and other plant matter. Fossil remains of Megaceros have been found throughout Europe, particularly in Irish peat bogs, where their preserved antlers were often discovered in excellent condition.
Despite its grandeur, Megaceros became extinct around 7,700 years ago, likely due to a combination of climatic changes, habitat loss, and overhunting by early humans. Nonetheless, this magnificent creature continues to fascinate scientists and the general public, leaving an indelible mark in the study of prehistoric fauna.
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The fossil or sub-fossil gigantic deer of our Pleistocene marls and peat-bogs; often but erroneously termed the "Irish elk".
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for MEGACEROS
Etymology of MEGACEROS
The word "Megaceros" has its roots in Greek. It is a combination of two Greek words: "mega" meaning large or great, and "keras" meaning horn. Therefore, "Megaceros" can be translated as "great horn" in English. It is a fitting name for a genus of extinct deer that lived during the Pleistocene period and had large antlers.
