SYNDACTYLUS Meaning and
Definition
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Syndactylus is an adjective derived from the Greek words "syn," meaning together, and "daktylos," meaning finger. It refers to a condition or characteristic in which two or more digits are fused together. In the biological context, syndactylus is often used to describe certain anatomical features observed in animals, particularly in their limbs or toes.
This term specifically pertains to the fusion of adjacent digits, forming a single structure, resulting in a decreased number of separate digits. Syndactylus typically occurs due to a developmental anomaly during embryogenesis, leading to incomplete separation of the digits. The degree of fusion can vary greatly among species, ranging from partial fusion of the skin and soft tissues to complete amalgamation of bones and joints.
Syndactylus has been observed in various animal species, including amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals. For instance, certain breeds of domestic cats, such as the Maine Coon or the Birman, are known for exhibiting syndactylus in their front paws, with two or more toes fused together. In birds, syndactylus is commonly observed in some species of owls, where two or three toes are fused, allowing them to grasp and manipulate objects efficiently.
This term is predominantly used in the field of zoology and comparative anatomy to classify and describe these anatomical variations. Studying syndactylus helps researchers understand the developmental mechanisms involved in limb formation and the evolutionary adaptations exhibited by different animal species.
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A person with fused or webbed fingers or toes.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for SYNDACTYLUS
- syndactyles
- syndactylous
- Syndactylies
- ayndactylus
- zyndactylus
- xyndactylus
- dyndactylus
- eyndactylus
- wyndactylus
- stndactylus
- sgndactylus
- shndactylus
- sundactylus
- s7ndactylus
- s6ndactylus
- sybdactylus
- symdactylus
- syjdactylus
- syhdactylus
- synsactylus
Etymology of SYNDACTYLUS
The word "syndactylus" is derived from the Greek roots "syn" meaning "together" and "daktulos" meaning "finger". "Syndactylus" is a term used in biology to describe a condition where two or more digits, usually fingers or toes, are fused together. It is often used in the context of describing certain animal species with fused digits.
Similar spelling words for SYNDACTYLUS
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