Bandicoot Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ฆ
bandicoot
[หbรฆndษชkuหt ]
Definition
small marsupial
A bandicoot is a small marsupial native to Australia and New Guinea. They are known for their pointed snouts, long tails, and insectivorous diet. Bandicoots are nocturnal animals and are often found in forests or grasslands.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| bandicoot |
Typically used in a biological or zoological context to refer to a small marsupial native to Australia. It can also be used in animal conservation discussions.
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| marsupial |
A broader biological term used to refer to any member of the infraclass Marsupialia, which includes animals like kangaroos, koalas, bandicoots, and bilbies. Commonly used in educational contexts or scientific discussions.
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| quoll |
Specifically refers to a carnivorous marsupial native to Australia, used primarily in more specific discussions of Australian wildlife and conservation.
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| bilby |
Used in similar contexts to 'bandicoot', but refers specifically to a type of small nocturnal marsupial known for its long ears and burrowing habits. Often discussed in conservation campaigns in Australia.
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Examples of usage
- Last night, I saw a bandicoot rummaging through the bushes.
- The bandicoot is a solitary animal, rarely seen during the day.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Ecology
- Bandicoots play a crucial role in their ecosystem by digging into the ground, which helps aerate the soil.
- They are primarily nocturnal, which means they are active during the night and rest during the day, reducing competition with other animals for resources.
Pop Culture
- In the video game world, the character Crash Bandicoot became iconic in the 1990s, showcasing the playful nature of this animal.
- The bandicoot gained popularity in various animated series and cartoons, often depicted as a quirky and adventurous creature.
Conservation
- Several bandicoot species are currently endangered due to habitat loss and predation by introduced species like cats and foxes.
- Conservation efforts are underway in Australia to protect bandicoots, involving habitat restoration and breeding programs.
Physiology
- Bandicoots have a unique feature: they can only use their front legs for digging, while their hind legs are specialized for powerful jumps.
- They have a pouch similar to kangaroos, which keeps their young safe while they explore and forage for food.
Origin of 'bandicoot'
Main points about word origin
- The name 'bandicoot' comes from the word 'pandi-kokku' used in Telugu, a language from India, meaning 'pig-rat'.
- These creatures belong to the order Peramelemorphia, which highlights their unique evolutionary path as marsupials.
The word 'bandicoot' originated from the Telugu word 'pandikokku', which means 'pig-rat'. The term was first recorded in the English language in the early 19th century. Bandicoots have been an integral part of Australian and New Guinean folklore, often depicted as mischievous creatures in indigenous stories.