Definition

Noun: * Suborder Strepsirhini: A taxonomic suborder of primates. In some classification systems, it is considered to be either exactly the same group as the Lemuroidea (the lemurs) or to include the "true lemurs" as a core component. This group is characterized by features such as a moist, hairless nose (rhinarium) and a toothcomb.

Usage Notes

• Suborder Strepsirhini is a specialized scientific term used in biological taxonomy and primatology. It is not used in everyday conversation.
• The term's precise scope can vary between different classification systems, as indicated in the definition. It is always used as a formal, singular noun.

Examples

• The suborder Strepsirhini includes primates like lemurs, lorises, and bushbabies.
• Comparative anatomical studies often focus on the differences between the suborder Strepsirhini and the suborder Haplorhini (which includes tarsiers, monkeys, and apes).
• In some older classifications, the suborder Strepsirhini was coextensive with the superfamily Lemuroidea.

Advanced Usage

• The term is used in academic papers, taxonomic keys, and evolutionary biology texts to describe a major branch of the primate evolutionary tree.
• It is often contrasted with its sister group, the suborder Haplorhini. Discussions may refer to "strepsirhine primates" or "strepsirhines" as a shorthand.

Variants and Related Words

• Strepsirhine (noun/adjective): A member of the suborder Strepsirhini; or, relating to this suborder.
  • Example: The strepsirhine primates are generally nocturnal.
• Lemuroidea (noun): A superfamily within the primates, often closely associated with or contained within Strepsirhini.

Synonyms

• Prosimians (in traditional, paraphyletic classifications): This older, broader term often included Strepsirhini along with tarsiers. In modern cladistics, "strepsirhine" is the more precise term for this specific lineage.

Different Meanings

The word "suborder Strepsirhini" has only one meaning: it is a fixed, proper noun referring to a specific taxonomic rank and group within the biological classification of primates. It does not have other general or figurative meanings.

Noun

1. in some classifications either coextensive with the Lemuroidea or comprising the true lemurs