family Molossidae
Proper noun (zoology, taxonomy): A family of bats within the order Chiroptera, commonly known as free-tailed bats or mastiff bats. These bats are characterized by their tails, which extend freely beyond the edge of the tail membrane (uropatagium).
The term "family Molossidae" is used in scientific and zoological contexts to classify and discuss this specific taxonomic group of bats. * The family Molossidae is distributed worldwide in tropical and subtropical regions. * Research into the echolocation calls of the family Molossidae has revealed high-frequency signals suited for open-air foraging.
- In formal taxonomic writing, the family name is often italicized: .
- Members of this family are frequently referred to collectively as "molossids."
- Molossid (noun): An individual bat belonging to the family Molossidae.
- The Brazilian free-tailed bat is a common molossid in the Americas.
- Molossine (adjective): Pertaining to or characteristic of the family Molossidae.
- The study focused on molossine wing morphology.
- Free-tailed bats
- Mastiff bats
This is a specialized scientific term. In everyday language, one would use the common names "free-tailed bat" or "mastiff bat" instead of "family Molossidae." The term refers exclusively to the entire taxonomic family, not to an individual animal.
- mastiff bats; freetail bats