SEA OTTER Meaning and
Definition
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The sea otter, scientifically known as Enhydra lutris, is a marine mammal belonging to the Mustelidae family and the Enhydra genus. Found along the coastlines of the Northern Pacific Ocean, sea otters are highly adapted to aquatic life and are considered the smallest marine mammal species. They exhibit a robust, streamlined body with a thick, dense fur that helps them stay warm in the cold ocean waters.
Sea otters possess several unique physical characteristics, such as webbed feet and a muscular tail, which allow them to excel in swimming and diving. They have a small round head with small ears, and their nostrils and ears can be closed underwater. These intelligent creatures have a remarkable ability to use tools, often utilizing stones to open shellfish and obtain their food.
Their diet consists mainly of bottom-dwelling invertebrates, including sea urchins, clams, crabs, and octopuses. Sea otters play a pivotal role in maintaining the health and balance of nearshore marine ecosystems, as they are known as keystone species. They prevent over-grazing of kelp beds by sea urchins and thus enable the growth and survival of other organisms that depend on kelp forests.
Sea otters were decimated by hunting during the fur trade era, leading to their near-extinction in the early 20th century. Conservation efforts have since helped recover their populations, but they are still classified as an endangered species. These playful and social animals are beloved for their charming behavior, often seen floating on their backs, holding hands, and grooming their fur.
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A kind of otter found in the North Pacific, having fur extremely soft, and of a deep glossy black.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for SEA OTTER
- aea otter
- zea otter
- xea otter
- dea otter
- eea otter
- wea otter
- swa otter
- ssa otter
- sda otter
- sra otter
- s4a otter
- s3a otter
- sez otter
- ses otter
- sew otter
- seq otter
- sea itter
- sea ktter
- sea ltter
- sea ottet
Etymology of SEA OTTER
The word "sea otter" has a straightforward etymology.
The term "sea" is derived from the Old English word "sǣ" which means "a large body of salt water". This word is related to the Dutch word "zee", the German word "See", and the Swedish word "sjö".
The word "otter" comes from the Old English word "otera", which is a general term for any otter species. This word can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "utraz", which means "water animal".
So, when we combine these two elements, "sea" and "otter", we get the term "sea otter" to refer to a specific species of otter that primarily inhabits marine environments.
Similar spelling words for SEA OTTER
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