PLANTIGRADE MAMMAL Meaning and
Definition
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A plantigrade mammal is a term used to describe a specific body posture and mode of locomotion exhibited by certain mammals. The term "plantigrade" refers to animals that walk on the entire surface of their feet, from heel to toe, with the sole of the foot in contact with the ground.
In the context of mammals, a plantigrade stance implies that the animal's fingers or toes, as well as the sole or palms of their feet, bear weight during locomotion. This is in contrast to animals with a digitigrade or unguligrade stance, where only the toes or hooves touch the ground, respectively.
Plantigrade mammals typically possess limbs that are relatively shorter and thicker, allowing for a greater distribution of weight across the entire foot. This mode of locomotion provides stability and balance, beneficial for maneuvering in various terrestrial habitats. Examples of plantigrade mammals include humans, bears, raccoons, and primates such as monkeys and apes.
The plantigrade stance allows these mammals to exhibit a more versatile range of movements, including the ability to climb and grasp objects, as well as maintaining a stable posture while standing or walking. This adaptation enables plantigrade mammals to engage in a wide array of behaviors, varying from climbing trees to traversing the forest floor.
Common Misspellings for PLANTIGRADE MAMMAL
- olantigrade mammal
- llantigrade mammal
- -lantigrade mammal
- 0lantigrade mammal
- pkantigrade mammal
- ppantigrade mammal
- poantigrade mammal
- plzntigrade mammal
- plsntigrade mammal
- plwntigrade mammal
- plqntigrade mammal
- plabtigrade mammal
- plamtigrade mammal
- plajtigrade mammal
- plahtigrade mammal
- planrigrade mammal
- planfigrade mammal
- plangigrade mammal
- planyigrade mammal
Etymology of PLANTIGRADE MAMMAL
The etymology of the term "plantigrade mammal" derives from the combination of two Latin roots: "planta" meaning sole of the foot, and "gradus" meaning step or walk. The word "plantigrade" literally translates to "sole-walker". In scientific classification, plantigrade mammals are those that walk on the soles of their feet, with the full foot or palm of the hand making contact with the ground, such as humans, bears, and raccoons.
