Hippopotamus
Hippopotamus
Hippopotamus (/ˌhɪpəˈpɒtəməs/; Hippopotamus amphibius), also known as the common hippopotamus or simply hippo, is a large, mostly herbivorous, semiaquatic mammal and ungulate native to sub-Saharan Africa.
Etymology
The word "hippopotamus" is derived from the ancient Greek ἱπποπόταμος, hippopotamos, from ἵππος, hippos, "horse", and ποταμός, potamos, "river", meaning "horse of the river".
Description
The hippopotamus is the third largest land mammal after the elephant and the white rhinoceros. It is characterized by its barrel-shaped torso, enormous mouth and teeth, nearly hairless body, stubby legs and tremendous size.
Behavior
Hippos are known for their aggressive behavior and powerful jaws, which can crush a small boat. They are also excellent swimmers and can hold their breath for up to five minutes underwater.
Related Terms
- Ungulate: Any member of a diverse group of primarily large mammals that includes odd-toed ungulates such as horses and rhinoceroses, and even-toed ungulates such as cattle, pigs, giraffes, camels, deer, and hippopotami.
- Herbivore: An animal anatomically and physiologically adapted to eating plant material.
- Semiquatic: Animals that are not exclusively aquatic or terrestrial, but spend a significant portion of their time in the water.
- Sub-Saharan Africa: The area of the African continent which lies south of the Sahara Desert.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Hippopotamus
- Wikipedia's article - Hippopotamus
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