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Podicipitiformes

Podicipitiformes

9.9
A group of water birds like grebes that swim and dive
  • noun
  • /ˌpɒdɪˌsɪpɪˈtɪfɔːrmiːz/
  • Specialized
: Podicipitiformes
  • The Podicipitiformes are fascinating birds that are excellent divers.

Examples

  • Did you know that Podicipitiformes are often found in freshwater lakes?

  • The skeleton of Podicipitiformes is specially adapted for efficient swimming and diving.

  • Field guides often discuss the unique plumage patterns of Podicipitiformes species.

  • Scientists have observed various breeding behaviors among Podicipitiformes in different habitats around the world.

  • Field guides often discuss the unique plumage patterns of Podicipitiformes species.

  • Scientists have observed various breeding behaviors among Podicipitiformes in different habitats around the world.

  • The skeleton of Podicipitiformes is specially adapted for efficient swimming and diving.

Synonyms

Podicipediformes
vsPodicipitiformes
  • Specialized
9.9

A group of water birds like grebes with special toes that help them dive to catch fish

is the general order name without anatomical detail
order Podicipediformes
vsPodicipitiformes
  • Specialized
9.9

A group of water birds called grebes that dive to swim and catch food

is the ordinary order name without the taxonomic label
Colymbiformes
vsPodicipitiformes
  • Specialized
9.9

A group of water birds with lobed toes that dive to swim

is the simple order name focusing on group identity not traits

Surface Forms

Etymology

Podicipitiformes comes from Latin parts podici 'rump' and pes 'foot', so it literally means 'rump-footed'. That's why the name fits grebes: these birds have their legs set far back on their bodies, which helps them swim and dive.