Carnivores
Carnivores
Carnivores (/kɑːrˈnɪvɔːrz/), from the Latin carnis meaning "meat" and vorare meaning "to devour", are organisms that primarily eat meat. They are part of the order Carnivora which includes over 280 species of placental mammals.
Etymology
The term "carnivore" originates from Latin carnis (meaning "meat") and vorare (meaning "to devour"). It was first used in English in the early 17th century.
Characteristics
Carnivores are characterized by their sharp teeth and claws, which they use for hunting and tearing meat. They have a short digestive tract, as meat is easier to digest than plant material. Most carnivores are also capable of fast running to catch their prey.
Classification
Carnivores are classified into two suborders: Feliformia (cat-like carnivores) and Caniformia (dog-like carnivores). These include species such as lions, tigers, wolves, and bears.
Diet
The diet of a carnivore primarily consists of meat. Some carnivores, known as obligate carnivores, must eat meat to survive, while others, known as facultative carnivores, can survive on a diet that includes plants and other foods in addition to meat.
Related Terms
- Omnivores: Organisms that eat both plants and meat.
- Herbivores: Organisms that eat only plants.
- Scavengers: Organisms that eat dead and decaying organisms.
- Predators: Organisms that hunt and kill other organisms for food.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Carnivores
- Wikipedia's article - Carnivores
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