How Do You Spell OPPORTUNIVORE?

Pronunciation: [ɒpətjˈuːnɪvˌɔː] (IPA)

The word "opportunivore" is a term used to describe an animal or human that will eat anything available, regardless of its quality or nutritional value. It is derived from the word "opportunist" and the suffix "-vore" meaning "to eat." The pronunciation of "opportunivore" is /ˌɒpətjuːnɪvɔː/ where the stress falls on the second syllable. The IPA phonetic transcription of the word clearly indicates that the "u" in "opportunist" is pronounced with a long "u" sound, as in "you."

OPPORTUNIVORE Meaning and Definition

1. Opportunivore is a term coined to describe an organism, typically an animal, that has a flexible and adaptable diet, taking advantage of various available food sources. The word itself is a combination of "opportunist" and "omnivore", highlighting the opportunistic feeding behavior exhibited by these organisms.

   An opportunivore is not bound by specific dietary requirements or preferences and will consume whatever food is easily accessible, making the most of the resources in its environment. This can include both plant and animal material, as well as scavenging on carrion, foraging for fruits and nuts, and hunting or feeding on other animals.

   The opportunivore is able to exploit a wide range of food sources due to its ability to adapt its feeding behavior and digestive system to different types of food. Unlike strict herbivores or carnivores, opportunivores have anatomical and physiological characteristics that allow them to digest and extract nutrients from a variety of food items.

   This term is often used to describe certain species of animals, such as raccoons, bears, and some primates, that are highly adaptable and able to survive in a range of environments by capitalizing on available food resources. Opportunivores play a crucial role in ecosystems by reducing waste, contributing to nutrient cycling, and helping maintain overall ecosystem balance.

Etymology of OPPORTUNIVORE

The word "opportunivore" is a blend of two words: "opportunist" and "omnivore".

The term "opportunist" originated from the Latin word "opportunus", meaning "fit, favorable, or convenient". In English, an opportunist is someone who takes advantage of opportunities as they arise, often for personal gain or benefit.

The word "omnivore" comes from Latin as well. "Omni" means "all", and "vorare" means "to devour". Therefore, an omnivore is an animal that consumes a variety of food, including both plant and animal matter.

By combining the two words, "opportunivore" describes an organism that is an opportunist in terms of its feeding habits. It refers to an animal that takes advantage of various food sources and is adaptable or flexible in its diet.