Myocastor coypus
- noun
- /ˌmaɪoʊˈkæstər ˈkɔɪpəs/
- Specialized
- Myocastor coypus is a large rodent often found in wetlands across South America.
Examples
-
Farmers have struggled to control the Myocastor coypus population, which damages crops and riverbanks.
-
Many farmers raise Myocastor coypus for their fur.
-
Myocastor coypus was introduced into North America, where it has since become invasive in wetland areas.
-
The luxurious fur of the Myocastor coypus is highly valued in the fashion industry.
-
The Myocastor coypus is often found near water bodies.
-
Farmers raise Myocastor coypus for their valuable fur, which is sought after in the fashion industry.
-
Invasive populations of Myocastor coypus have caused significant ecological damage in many regions.
Synonyms
5
8.6
A large rodent that lives in water, with webbed feet and a long tail like a small beaver
1
9.3
A large animal like a beaver that lives in water and people keep for its fur
Surface Forms
Morphology
This is a scientific binomial formed from a genus name (Myocastor) and a species/common-name element (coypu), so its meaning as a specific large semi‑aquatic rodent is directly derivable from the constituents. Although the terms are specialized, the combination is compositional and follows standard taxonomic naming, making the referent predictable for a learner who knows both words.
Etymology
Myocastor coypus may come from Greek and a native South American word: Myocastor from 'mouse' + 'beaver', and coypus from a word for 'water rat'. So, the name gives a clear image of a beaver-like rodent that lives in water and fits the animal's semi-aquatic life and value for fur.