MEPHITIS MEPHITIS Meaning and
Definition
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Mephitis mephitis is the scientific name referring to a specific mammal species commonly known as the striped skunk. It is a small carnivorous mammal native to North America, known for its distinct black and white striped fur pattern. The dictionary definition of Mephitis mephitis describes it as a nocturnal and solitary mammal, belonging to the family Mephitidae.
Reaching an average length of around 60-80 centimeters (24-32 inches) and weighing up to 2-4.5 kilograms (4.5-10 pounds), the striped skunk has a robust body with short legs and a bushy tail. However, its most recognizable feature is the presence of two bold white stripes running from the head to the tail, often on a black or dark brown fur background.
The striped skunk possesses a specialized defense mechanism, capable of emitting a strong musk-like spray from its anal glands when threatened or alarmed. The odor produced acts as a deterrent, repelling potential predators and providing a first line of defense.
Although mainly found in forested and grassy habitats, Mephitis mephitis exhibits a high adaptability and can also inhabit human-made environments like suburban areas. It is an omnivorous species that feeds on a wide range of food sources including insects, small mammals, bird eggs, and fruits, allowing them to thrive in various ecosystems.
Overall, Mephitis mephitis, or the striped skunk, is a small carnivorous mammal known for its unique fur patterns and the ability to emit a potent odor as a defense mechanism.
Common Misspellings for MEPHITIS MEPHITIS
- nephitis mephitis
- kephitis mephitis
- jephitis mephitis
- mwphitis mephitis
- msphitis mephitis
- mdphitis mephitis
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- m3phitis mephitis
- meohitis mephitis
- melhitis mephitis
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- me0hitis mephitis
- mepgitis mephitis
- mepbitis mephitis
- mepnitis mephitis
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- mepuitis mephitis
- mepyitis mephitis
Etymology of MEPHITIS MEPHITIS
The word "mephitis mephitis" is the scientific name for the striped skunk, a species of skunk found in North America. It is derived from Latin.
The term "mephitis" originates from Latin and means "noxious vapor" or "noxious exhalation". In ancient Roman mythology, Mephitis was the goddess of gases emitted from swamps, volcanoes, and other foul-smelling sources.
The repetition of "mephitis" in the scientific name "mephitis mephitis" is due to the standard binomial nomenclature system established by Carl Linnaeus in the 18th century. In this system, the genus name is repeated as the species name for easy identification and classification purposes.
Therefore, "mephitis mephitis" essentially means "skunk skunk" in Latin, designating this particular species as belonging to the skunk genus.
Similar spelling word for MEPHITIS MEPHITIS
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