Definition

Noun 1. A large, hare-like rodent native to the grasslands of Argentina: Dolichotis patagonum is the scientific name for the Patagonian mara, a distinctive rodent that resembles a hare or small deer in its appearance and running gait. It is characterized by long legs, large ears, and a tawny-grey coat.

Examples

• The Dolichotis patagonum is a social animal that lives in warrens.
• Unlike many rodents, the Dolichotis patagonum is primarily diurnal, meaning it is active during the day.
• Conservation efforts are important for the Dolichotis patagonum as its habitat is threatened.

Advanced Usage

• In scientific/zoological context: The term is used precisely to refer to this specific species within the genus . It is the formal binomial nomenclature.
  • The study focused on the mating behavior of Dolichotis patagonum.

Variants and Related Words

• Patagonian mara: The common English name for .
• Mara: A shorter, more general common name that can also refer to its close relative, the Chacoan mara ().
• Dolichotis: The genus name, which includes both mara species.

Synonyms

• Patagonian cavy
• Patagonian hare (a descriptive, but taxonomically inaccurate, common name due to its resemblance)

Noun

1. hare-like rodent of the pampas of Argentina