MICROTUS ARVALIS Meaning and
Definition
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Microtus arvalis, commonly known as the common vole or the field vole, is a species of small rodent belonging to the family Cricetidae. It is found in various parts of Europe, commonly inhabiting grasslands, meadows, and agricultural fields.
This vole species is characterized by its small size, with adults typically measuring around 10 to 15 centimeters in length. They have a compact body structure, short legs, and a relatively short tail. The fur coloration can vary, but it is usually brown or grayish-brown, helping it blend in with its natural surroundings.
As a herbivorous creature, the common vole primarily feeds on plant material, including grasses, herbs, roots, and seeds. They are considered pests in some agricultural areas due to their ability to cause damage to crops and grasslands when populations increase significantly.
Common voles have a relatively short reproductive cycle, with females capable of producing multiple litters each year. A typical litter can consist of several young voles, allowing their populations to increase rapidly under favorable conditions.
These rodents are highly adaptable and have a wide distribution across Europe, occupying a range of habitats from lowlands to mountainous regions. They are a significant component of many ecosystems and contribute to soil aeration and seed dispersal through their activities.
In conclusion, Microtus arvalis is a small rodent species found in Europe, primarily inhabiting grasslands and agricultural environments. They are herbivores and can cause agricultural damage, but also play important ecological roles in the regions they inhabit.
Etymology of MICROTUS ARVALIS
The word "microtus arvalis" is a scientific binomial name commonly used for the common vole or field vole. In biological taxonomy, the binomial name typically consists of two parts: the genus name (capitalized) and the species name (lowercase).
The genus name "Microtus" is derived from the Greek words "mikros" meaning "small" and "ous" meaning "ear", referring to the small ears of voles in this genus.
The species name "arvalis" is from the Latin word "arvum" meaning "a plowed field". This species name is chosen because the common vole is commonly found in fields and agricultural areas.
So, the word "microtus arvalis" literally translates to "small-eared vole of the plowed field" in reference to the physical characteristics and habitat of the common vole.
