chiroptera
/kaiə'rɔptərə/
Definition
- Noun:
- An order of mammals: "Chiroptera" is the scientific name for the biological order comprising all bats. It is characterized by mammals whose forelimbs are adapted as wings, making them the only mammals naturally capable of true and sustained flight.
Usage Examples
- Noun:
- The order Chiroptera is divided into two main suborders: Megachiroptera and Microchiroptera.
- Bats belong to the mammalian order Chiroptera.
Advanced Usage
- In scientific/zoological context: The term is used almost exclusively in formal biological classification and academic writing to refer to bats as a taxonomic group.
- The diversity within Chiroptera is remarkable, with over 1,400 species.
- Fossil evidence helps scientists understand the evolution of Chiroptera.
Variants and Related Words
- Chiropteran (noun/adjective): A member of the order Chiroptera; relating to bats.
- Chiropteran species play vital roles in ecosystems as pollinators and insect controllers.
Synonyms
- Bats: The common English name for members of the order Chiroptera.
Notes on Meaning
- The word "Chiroptera" itself is not typically used in everyday English conversation. In common language, the word "bats" is used. "Chiroptera" is a specialized term from Latin and Greek roots ("cheir" meaning hand and "pteron" meaning wing), referring to the wing structure.
Noun
-
an old order dating to early Eocene: bats: suborder Megachiroptera (fruit bats); suborder Microchiroptera (insectivorous bats)
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