CLETHRIONOMYS Meaning and
Definition
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Clethrionomys is a genus of small, mouse-like rodents belonging to the family Cricetidae. It includes several species commonly known as red-backed voles or bank voles. These voles are widely distributed across the northern hemisphere, inhabiting various habitats including forests, grasslands, and tundra regions.
Red-backed voles are characterized by their small size, typically measuring around 10 to 12 centimeters in length, with a short tail. They have reddish-brown to grayish-brown fur on their upper body, which gives them their common name. Their underparts are usually lighter in color, often shades of white or gray.
These rodents are highly adaptable and display a diverse range of ecological preferences. They are generally found in forests and are adept climbers, often occupying tree cavities and creating burrows beneath fallen logs or rocks. Red-backed voles are omnivorous, feeding on a diet primarily consisting of seeds, fruits, insects, fungi, and the occasional small vertebrate.
Clethrionomys species are known for their high reproductive potential. Females typically have multiple litters in a year, with each litter producing several offspring. This reproductive strategy allows them to maintain stable populations and rapidly recolonize areas following disturbance or habitat fragmentation.
While red-backed voles generally have no significant impact on humans, they play important ecological roles by contributing to seed dispersal, serving as prey for various predators, and participating in nutrient cycling.
Common Misspellings for CLETHRIONOMYS
- xlethrionomys
- vlethrionomys
- flethrionomys
- dlethrionomys
- ckethrionomys
- cpethrionomys
- coethrionomys
- clwthrionomys
- clsthrionomys
- cldthrionomys
- clrthrionomys
- cl4thrionomys
- cl3thrionomys
- clerhrionomys
- clefhrionomys
- cleghrionomys
- cleyhrionomys
- cle6hrionomys
- cle5hrionomys
Etymology of CLETHRIONOMYS
The word "clethrionomys" is derived from Greek and Latin roots.
The first part of the word, "clethrio", is derived from the Greek word "kleis" meaning "a key".
The second part of the word, "nomys", is derived from the Greek word "nomos" meaning "law or rule".
Combined, "clethrionomys" literally means "key to the rules or laws". However, in the context of the scientific name for a genus of rodents, the term likely refers to some characteristic or quality of the animals.
Similar spelling word for CLETHRIONOMYS
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