casuariiformes

Thân thiện

A cassowary, a member of the order Casuariiformes, walks through a tropical forest.

Definition

Noun 1. A taxonomic order of large, flightless birds: Casuariiformes is the scientific name for the biological order comprising the cassowary and emu families. These are ratite birds, characterized by a flat breastbone without a keel, which prevents flight.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The order Casuariiformes includes some of the largest birds in the world.
  • Scientists study the evolution of ratites within the Casuariiformes.

Advanced Usage

• In taxonomic classification: The term is used primarily in scientific and zoological contexts to categorize and discuss these specific birds.
  • The phylogenetic study placed the extinct genus Genyornis within the Casuariiformes.

Variants and Related Words

• Casuariformes (n): An alternate, though less common, spelling for the same taxonomic order.
• Casuariiform (adj): Relating to or characteristic of the order Casuariiformes.
  • The casuariiform skeleton shows distinct adaptations for running.

Synonyms

• Ratite order (specific): Refers to the same group, though "ratite" is a broader category that includes other flightless birds like ostriches and rheas.

Notes on Meaning

This word has a single, precise scientific meaning. It is not used in everyday language but is essential in biological and paleontological disciplines.

Học thuật

Noun

1. a ratite bird order: cassowaries and emus

Từ đồng nghĩa

• Casuariiformes
• order Casuariiformes