Definition

1. Noun:
   • A taxonomic family of seabirds: "Family Procellariidae" is the scientific name for a family of pelagic birds commonly known as petrels, fulmars, and shearwaters. These birds are characterized by their tube-shaped nostrils and their ability to fly long distances over the open ocean.

Usage

• The term "Family Procellariidae" is used primarily in scientific, zoological, and ornithological contexts to classify and discuss this specific group of seabirds.
• It is a formal taxonomic designation.

Examples

• Noun:
  • The storm petrel belongs to the Family Procellariidae.
  • Researchers studied the migratory patterns of several species within Family Procellariidae.
  • Family Procellariidae is one of the four families in the order Procellariiformes.

Advanced Usage

• In taxonomic hierarchy: The term is used to denote a specific rank (family) within biological classification, sitting between order and genus.
  • The order Procellariiformes includes Family Procellariidae, Family Diomedeidae (albatrosses), and others.

Variants and Related Words

• Procellariid (noun/adjective): A member of the Family Procellariidae; pertaining to this family.
  • Procellariid seabirds are expert gliders.
• Procellariiformes (noun): The larger order to which this family belongs.
• Petrel, Fulmar, Shearwater (nouns): Common names for birds within this family.

Synonyms

• Tubenoses: An informal common name for birds in the order Procellariiformes, referring to their distinctive tubular nostrils.
• Procellariid family: A less formal way to refer to the same taxonomic group.

Notes

• This is a specialized scientific term. In everyday language, the common names for the birds (petrel, shearwater) are used instead of the taxonomic family name.
• The definition provided ("petrels; fulmars; shearwaters") is a concise, glossary-style explanation listing representative members of the family.

Noun

1. petrels; fulmars; shearwaters;