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Glite Dictionary
Tarsioidea

Tarsioidea

9.9
A group of small primates that includes tarsiers
  • noun
  • /ˌtɑrsiˈɔɪdə/
  • Specialized
translation icon : Tarsioidea
  • Members of the Tarsioidea superfamily are known for their large eyes and long fingers.

Examples

  • Did you know that Tarsioidea includes tarsiers?

  • Scientists have long debated the exact placement of Tarsioidea within the primate order.

  • The evolutionary history of Tarsioidea provides insight into the divergence of primates.

  • The Tarsioidea are fascinating creatures.

  • The Tarsioidea superfamily is particularly noted for the unique adaptations of its primates, such as their nocturnal vision.

  • Researchers are studying the Tarsioidea to understand better the evolution of small primates.

  • Many members of the Tarsioidea have distinctive features that help them survive in their forest habitats.

Compounds

suborder Tarsioidea
  • Specialized
9.9

A group of primates that includes tarsiers

Surface Forms

Tarsioidea singular
Tarsioideas plural

Morphology

Tarsioidea = tarsier (opaque) = tarsio + oidea

The English base 'tarsier' is identifiable, but the suffix 'oidea' is a technical taxonomic marker ('superfamily') unfamiliar to average learners, so the formation is not transparently interpretable.

Etymology

Tarsioidea comes from the small primate name tarsier and the scientific ending -oidea, which means 'group' or 'like'. The name tarsier goes back to an old Greek word for the 'flat of the foot' and refers to their long ankle bones that help them jump, so Tarsioidea simply means the 'group of tarsiers'.