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Glite Dictionary
Thomomys

Thomomys

9.9
A small animal like a gopher that lives underground in North America
  • noun
  • /θoʊˈmoʊmɪs/
  • Specialized
translation icon : Thomomys
  • Thomomys species are burrowing rodents commonly found in North America.

Examples

  • Thomomys species are well known for creating extensive tunnel systems underground.

  • Many farmers are familiar with Thomomys because of the damage they cause to crops.

  • Researchers tracked the population dynamics of local Thomomys over several years.

  • The Thomomys is known for its distinctive cheek pouches.

  • Have you ever seen a Thomomys in the wild?

  • Farmers often notice Thomomys due to the extensive burrows they create in fields.

  • Researchers study Thomomys to understand their role in the ecosystem.

Synonyms

gopher
vsThomomys
  • US
11 6.4

A small animal like a mouse that lives in tunnels and has cheek pouches

is more specific, referring to a particular genus mainly in North America
pocket gopher
vsThomomys
  • US
9.6

A small animal that lives in tunnels and carries food in cheek pouches

is a narrower genus within that family found mainly in North America

Compounds

Thomomys bottae
  • Specialized
9.9

A small gopher that lives underground in valleys and mountain meadows of the western United States

Surface Forms

Thomomys singular
Thomomys plural

Etymology

Thomomys comes from the name Thomas plus the Greek mys meaning 'mouse'. So Thomomys literally means 'Thomas's mouse', which helps you remember that this name is for a group of small burrowing rodents known as pocket gophers.