Definition

Proper noun A taxonomic family within the order Squamata: the legless lizards or snake-lizards, native to Australia and New Guinea, characterized by the absence of forelimbs and having only vestigial hindlimbs.

Usage

The term "family Pygopodidae" is used in formal, scientific contexts such as zoology, herpetology, and taxonomy to classify a specific group of reptiles. * The researcher published a paper on the evolutionary history of family Pygopodidae. * Family Pygopodidae is distinguished from true snakes by the presence of ear openings and vestigial limbs.

Advanced Usage

• In taxonomic hierarchy: The term is used to denote a precise level of biological classification (family), which sits between order and genus.
  • The study focused on the phylogenetic relationships within family Pygopodidae.

Variants and Related Words

• Pygopodidae (noun): The standard form of the family name, often used without the word "family."
  • Lizards in Pygopodidae are commonly called flap-footed lizards.
• Pygopodid (noun or adjective): A member of this family; pertaining to this family.
  • The pygopodid lizard was observed burrowing. (adjective)
  • Several pygopodids were collected for the study. (noun)
• Common Names: Legless lizards, snake-lizards, flap-footed lizards.

Synonyms

• Flap-footed lizards (common name)
• Legless lizards (general descriptive term, though this can also refer to other families like Anguidae)

Different Meanings

The term "family Pygopodidae" has a single, specific scientific meaning. It does not have general English definitions outside of biological taxonomy.

Noun

1. Australian and Tasmanian lizards