subfamily Petauristidae
Definition
Noun: - A taxonomic subfamily within the family Sciuridae: This subfamily comprises a specific group of rodents commonly known as the Old World flying squirrels. These are not true fliers but are capable of gliding between trees using a membrane of skin (the patagium) stretching between their limbs.
Usage Examples
- Noun:
- The subfamily Petauristidae includes several genera of gliding squirrels found across Asia and Europe.
- Biologists study the unique adaptations of the subfamily Petauristidae for arboreal locomotion.
Advanced Usage
- In taxonomic hierarchy: The term is used in scientific classification to group related genera. It is typically written in italics in formal contexts: .
- The genus Petaurus is placed within the subfamily Petauristidae.
Variants and Related Words
- Petauristidae (noun): The standard form of the subfamily name.
- Petauristine (adjective/noun): Relating to or a member of this subfamily.
- The petauristine squirrels exhibit remarkable gliding abilities.
Synonyms
- Old World flying squirrels: The common name for the members of this subfamily.
Notes on Meaning
- This term is highly specialized and used almost exclusively in scientific, zoological, or taxonomic contexts. It refers to a precise biological classification, not a behavioral or descriptive term. It is distinct from the New World flying squirrels, which belong to a different subfamily (Glaucomyinae).
Noun
-
Old World flying squirrels
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