XENARTHRAL Meaning and
Definition
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Xenarthral:
Xenarthral is a biological term, primarily used in the field of zoology, to describe a specific characteristic found in a group of mammals known as xenarthrans. Xenarthral refers to the unique anatomical adaptation related to the articulation of the joints in these creatures.
Xenarthrans belong to the superorder Xenarthra, which includes animals such as anteaters, sloths, and armadillos. These mammals evolved certain specialized features that set them apart. One of these distinctive attributes is their unusual form of joint articulation, known as xenarthral.
The term xenarthral is derived from the Greek words "xenos," meaning strange or foreign, and "arthron," meaning joint. It signifies the distinctive arrangement of joints in the skeletal structure of xenarthrans. The xenarthral joint configuration is characterized by bony projections, called xenarthrales, which limit the mobility of the individual vertebrae. This unique joint adaptation is believed to provide stability and reinforce the spinal column, serving as additional support.
The xenarthral characteristic plays a crucial role in the locomotion and posture of xenarthrans. Their specialized joint structure allows them to have a more rigid backbone, which aids in their characteristic slow and deliberate movements. Additionally, this adaptation is thought to have evolved as a means of enabling these animals to withstand the stresses associated with their specialized diets and habitats.
In conclusion, xenarthral is a term used to describe the distinct joint structure found in xenarthrans, a group of mammals containing anteaters, sloths, and armadillos. This anatomical adaptation enables stability and aids in their specific modes of locomotion and posture.
Common Misspellings for XENARTHRAL
- zenarthral
- cenarthral
- denarthral
- senarthral
- xwnarthral
- xsnarthral
- xdnarthral
- xrnarthral
- x4narthral
- x3narthral
- xebarthral
- xemarthral
- xejarthral
- xeharthral
- xenzrthral
- xensrthral
- xenwrthral
- xenqrthral
- xenaethral
- xenadthral
Etymology of XENARTHRAL
The word "xenarthral" is derived from two root words: "xeno" and "arthral".
1. "Xeno" is of Greek origin, derived from the word "xenos" (ξένος) which means "stranger" or "foreign". In English, it is often used as a prefix to indicate something foreign or otherness.
2. "Arthral" comes from the Greek word "arthron" (άρθρον), which means "joint". In English, "arthral" is commonly used as a suffix to refer to anything related to joints.
When these two parts are combined, "xenarthral" refers to organisms that have strange or peculiar joints. In biology, it specifically denotes a suborder of placental mammals, which includes anteaters, armadillos, and sloths.
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