genus microtus

Thân thiện

A vole from the genus Microtus nibbles on a blade of grass in a meadow.

Definition

Noun: * Genus Microtus: A genus of small rodents in the family Cricetidae, commonly known as voles. This genus includes many species found primarily in the Northern Hemisphere.

Usage

• The term "genus Microtus" is used in scientific and biological contexts to classify and discuss this specific group of rodents.
• It is a formal taxonomic name and is typically italicized in writing.

Examples

• Scientific Classification: is part of the subfamily Arvicolinae.
• Research Context: The study focused on the population dynamics within .
• Descriptive Use: Many animals, like owls and foxes, prey on members of .

Advanced Usage

• In ecological studies, "genus Microtus" is often referenced when discussing small mammal communities, herbivore impacts on vegetation, or population cycles.

Variants and Related Words

• Microtus (n): The abbreviated, standard form of the genus name.
  • Example: Microtus pennsylvanicus is the meadow vole.
• Vole (n): The common name for rodents in this genus and related genera.
  • Example: The field vole is a common species in Europe.
• Arvicolinae (n): The subfamily to which genus belongs.

Synonyms

• Voles (common name)
• Field mice (a less precise, general common name for similar small rodents)

Notes on Meaning

• The term specifically refers to the taxonomic rank (genus) and should not be confused with the informal common name "vole," which can include species from other genera.
• All members of are voles, but not all voles belong to .

Học thuật

Noun

1. voles of the northern hemisphere

Từ đồng nghĩa

• Microtus
• genus Microtus