odobenus
Definition
Noun: 1. A genus of marine mammals: Odobenus is the genus name for the walrus, a large marine mammal characterized by long tusks and whiskers, belonging to the family Odobenidae. It contains a single extant species, Odobenus rosmarus.
Usage
Odobenus is used primarily in scientific and zoological contexts to classify and refer to the walrus genus. - The walrus, Odobenus rosmarus, is found in the Arctic Ocean and subarctic seas. - The genus Odobenus is distinguished from other pinnipeds by its unique tusks.
Advanced Usage
- In taxonomic hierarchy: The term is used to specify the genus level within biological classification.
- The family Odobenidae contains only the genus Odobenus.
- In paleontology: Used when discussing extinct relatives or evolutionary history.
- Fossil records show earlier members of the genus Odobenus had different tusk structures.
Variants and Related Words
- Odobenidae (n): The biological family name for walruses, of which is the type genus.
- Odobenus rosmarus (n): The full binomial name for the walrus species, often divided into subspecies (e.g., , the Pacific walrus).
Synonyms
- Walrus genus: A common, non-scientific way to refer to this taxonomic group.
Notes on Meaning
This word has a single, specific scientific meaning. It is not used in general conversation but is essential for precise communication in biology and zoology.
Noun
-
type genus of the Odobenidae: walruses
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