TETRADACTYL Meaning and
Definition
-
Tetradactyl is a term primarily used in the field of zoology to describe a particular type of anatomical characteristic found in certain animal species. It specifically refers to organisms, commonly vertebrates, that possess four digits or toes on their feet or hands. The term is derived from two Greek words—“tetra” meaning four and “dactyl” meaning finger or toe—thus emphasizing the four-digit attribute.
Tetradactyl organisms are observed across various taxa, including mammals, reptiles, and birds. For example, many primates, such as humans, possess tetradactyl hands and feet, with four fingers and an opposable thumb. Similarly, numerous amphibians and reptiles exhibit tetradactyl limbs, consisting of four digits, while some birds display tetradactyl feet, with three forward-facing digits and one that faces backward.
This anatomical feature is considered to be an evolutionary adaptation that facilitates grasping, climbing, and manipulation in many species. Additionally, tetradactyl structures often possess specialized modifications or adaptations that further enhance the organism's ability to perform specific functions, such as webbed digits in aquatic creatures for efficient swimming.
In summary, tetradactyl refers to the possession of four digits or toes in an organism's hands or feet. This term is commonly used in the scientific study of animals and highlights an important anatomical characteristic seen across various vertebrate groups.
-
Having only four fingers or toes on each hand or foot.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for TETRADACTYL
- retradactyl
- fetradactyl
- getradactyl
- yetradactyl
- 6etradactyl
- 5etradactyl
- twtradactyl
- tstradactyl
- tdtradactyl
- trtradactyl
- t4tradactyl
- t3tradactyl
- terradactyl
- tefradactyl
- tegradactyl
- teyradactyl
- te6radactyl
- te5radactyl
- teteadactyl
- tetdadactyl
Etymology of TETRADACTYL
The word "Tetradactyl" originates from the combination of two Greek words: "tetra", meaning "four", and "daktulos", meaning "finger" or "toe". In the animal kingdom, it specifically refers to creatures that have four digits or toes on their limbs.
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
