Skip to main content
Cordylidae

Cordylidae

9.9
A family of small, spiny lizards from Africa that give birth to live young
  • noun
  • Specialized
: Cordílidos
  • Many Cordylidae give birth to live young, a trait unusual among reptiles.

Examples

  • The Cordylidae are known for their distinctive spiny scales and robust bodies.

  • Many Cordylidae species are found in rocky habitats.

  • Researchers observed a variety of defensive behaviors among several Cordylidae species.

  • The Cordylidae family includes unique lizards.

  • Many Cordylidae exhibit fascinating breeding behaviors, giving birth to live young instead of laying eggs.

  • Researchers studied how various Cordylidae species use their spiny scales for protection against predators.

  • The Cordylidae family includes small lizards characterized by their unique spiny bodies and adaptability to arid environments.

Synonyms

family Cordylidae
vsCordylidae
  • Specialized
9.9

A small group of spiny African lizards with tough scales that give birth to live young

is the same meaning but given as a single scientific name rather than labeled phrase

Compounds

family Cordylidae
  • Specialized
9.9

A small group of spiny African lizards with tough scales that give birth to live young

Surface Forms

Cordylidae singular
Cordylids plural

Morphology

Cordylidae = Cordylus (opaque) = Cordyl + idae

Formed by the genus name stem plus the taxonomic suffix '-idae'; this technical formation is not transparent to average learners.

Etymology

Cordylidae comes from the Greek word kordyle, meaning 'club', plus the animal family ending -idae. So Cordylidae is the family of spiny lizards with thick bodies and tails like little clubs, which helps you remember the name.