Otariidae
Definition
Noun A family of marine mammals within the suborder Pinnipedia, commonly known as eared seals. This family includes sea lions and fur seals, characterized by the presence of small external ear flaps, the ability to use their large front flippers for locomotion on land, and a more flexible neck compared to true seals (phocids).
Usage
The term is used in scientific and zoological contexts to classify and discuss this specific taxonomic family of pinnipeds. - The Otariidae are distinguished from other seals by their visible ear pinnae. - Marine biologists study the social behavior of Otariidae.
Advanced Usage
- Taxonomic Context: In formal biological classification, is always capitalized and italicized when referring to the formal family name. In general prose, it is often not italicized.
- The family Otariidae belongs to the order Carnivora.
Variants and Related Words
- Otariid (noun/adjective): A member of the family Otariidae; pertaining to the Otariidae.
- The otariid population on the island is thriving.
- Pinniped (noun): The broader suborder that includes Otariidae (eared seals), Phocidae (true seals), and Odobenidae (walruses).
Synonyms
- Eared seals: The common name for the family Otariidae.
- Walking seals: An informal term referencing their ability to walk on land using their flippers.
Related Terms (Not Synonyms)
- Phocidae: The family of true seals, which lack external ears and move on land by undulating their bodies.
- Sea lion: A common name for several genera within Otariidae (e.g., , ).
- Fur seal: A common name for seals in the genera and , which have a dense underfur.
Noun
-
eared seals: sea lions and fur seals
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