ZOOPHAGAN Meaning and
Definition
-
Zoophagan is a term used to describe an organism or organism group that primarily feeds on animal matter for sustenance. The suffix "-phagan" originates from the Greek word "phagēs" which means "to eat." Therefore, the term "zoophagan" denotes a creature that consumes animal flesh, blood, or other animal-based substances as its primary source of nourishment.
This term encompasses various organisms that rely on animal consumption for survival. It can refer to carnivorous animals that consume the flesh of other animals as their primary diet, such as lions, wolves, or tigers. Additionally, it includes insects, birds, or reptiles that feed on other living organisms or their bodily fluids, like mosquitoes feeding on blood or ticks consuming the blood of mammals, including humans.
Zoophagans differ from herbivorous creatures that chiefly consume plant-based materials or omnivorous creatures that have a mixed diet of both plants and animals. The concept encompasses both facultative zoophagans, which consume animal matter when available, and obligate zoophagans, whose survival depends entirely on consuming animal-based nutrients.
Overall, the term "zoophagan" describes a broad range of organisms that rely on animal matter as their primary source of sustenance, and it is essential in understanding the dietary habits and ecological roles of various species in the natural world.
-
Applied to animals that feed on animal food.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for ZOOPHAGAN
Etymology of ZOOPHAGAN
The word "zoophagan" is derived from two Greek roots: "zoo" meaning "animal" and "phagous" meaning "to eat". "Zoophagan" is formed by combining these two roots, and it refers to an organism or creature that feeds on other animals.
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
