Pronunciation: [tˈə͡ʊtɪpˌɑːme͡ɪt] (IPA) 
Totipalmate is a term used in ornithology to describe birds whose feet have all four toes connected via webbing. The word is pronounced /ˌtoʊtɪˈpælmeɪt/ in IPA phonetic transcription. The "t" at the beginning is followed by an "o" as in "toe". The "I" is pronounced as in "pit" and the "a" is pronounced like "cat". The "m" in the middle is pronounced as in "mum" and the "t" at the end is pronounced as the "t" in "bat".
Totipalmate is an adjective used in the field of ornithology to describe a specific characteristic observed in certain types of birds. Derived from the Latin words "totus" meaning whole or entire, and "palmatus" meaning webbed like a palm, the term refers to the distinctive feature of having fully webbed feet. It describes a bird having all its four toes connected by a membrane up to their tips, with the exception of the hind toe, which is either reduced in size or absent. This unique foot structure enables these birds to have exceptional swimming and diving abilities.
Totipalmate birds are primarily aquatic and are commonly found near coastal regions, lakes, and other bodies of water. They possess an incredible proficiency in swimming and are often capable of propelling themselves underwater rapidly. This specialized adaptation also aids in efficient movement across water surfaces, enabling them to navigate with greater ease and agility.
Examples of totipalmate birds include pelicans, gannets, cormorants, and some species of gulls. These birds typically exhibit a strong link between their morphological characteristics and their ecological habitats, as their webbed feet are well-suited to their aquatic lifestyles. The totipalmate adaptation is a remarkable trait that has evolved over time, enabling these birds to excel in their specific habitats and further adapt to their distinctive feeding strategies.
The word "totipalmate" is derived from Latin. It is a combination of two Latin words: "totus" meaning "whole" or "entire" and "palmatus" meaning "having webbed feet". In ornithology, the term "totipalmate" is used to describe birds with fully webbed or palmate feet, where all four toes are joined by webbing. This adaptation is common in aquatic birds such as pelicans, cormorants, and gannets that use their webbed feet for swimming and diving.
