HETEROPELMOUS Meaning and
Definition
-
Heteropelmous is a term commonly used in the field of ornithology to describe a specific characteristic found in birds. The term is derived from two Greek words: "heteros," meaning different, and "pelmus," meaning heel or back part of the foot. In ornithological terms, heteropelmous refers to a condition where the arrangement of the toes on a bird's foot is unequal, with the first and fourth toes pointing backward, while the second and third toes point forward.
This distinctive foot arrangement is mainly observed in certain bird families like the Accipitridae (hawks, eagles, and kites) and the Osprey family (Pandionidae). Compared to other birds, heteropelmous feet provide these species with enhanced gripping ability and increased overall strength. This specialized foot condition is particularly advantageous for raptors as it enables them to effectively capture and hold onto their prey, even while in flight.
The unequal toe arrangement of heteropelmous birds is often explained through the optimization of grabbing and perching functions. The reversed first toe and backward fourth toe provide a solid grip on their quarry, while the forward-pointing second and third toes allow stable perching positions on branches or other surfaces.
The term heteropelmous is a valuable descriptor for identifying and understanding the unique foot adaptations seen in various avian species, particularly those that belong to raptor groups. By studying the heteropelmous characteristic, researchers can gain insights into the evolutionary adaptations of birds for hunting, perching, and overall locomotion.
Common Misspellings for HETEROPELMOUS
- geteropelmous
- beteropelmous
- neteropelmous
- jeteropelmous
- ueteropelmous
- yeteropelmous
- hwteropelmous
- hsteropelmous
- hdteropelmous
- hrteropelmous
- h4teropelmous
- h3teropelmous
- hereropelmous
- heferopelmous
- hegeropelmous
- heyeropelmous
- he6eropelmous
- he5eropelmous
- hetwropelmous
Etymology of HETEROPELMOUS
The word "Heteropelmous" is derived from two Greek roots: "hetero" meaning different or other, and "pelmous" meaning lobe or webbed foot. These roots are commonly used in zoological terminology, particularly in the study of birds. In the case of "Heteropelmous", it refers to a condition where the three forward-facing toes of a bird's foot are webbed, while the fourth rear toe is separate and free.
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
