How Do You Spell ZOOPHAGOUS?

1. Zoophagous is an adjective derived from the Greek words "zoo" (meaning "animal") and "phagos" (meaning "eater" or "devourer"). It refers to organisms, particularly animals or insects, that have a diet primarily consisting of other animals.

   Animals that are zoophagous are commonly known as carnivores or predators. These organisms have adapted anatomical and physiological features such as sharp teeth, strong jaws, and claws to capture, kill, and consume other animals for sustenance. Some examples of zoophagous animals include lions, wolves, sharks, spiders, and hawks.

   Zoophagous organisms play crucial roles in food chains and ecosystems by controlling the population of their prey, ensuring ecological balance. They are necessary components of the animal kingdom as they maintain a balance between herbivorous animals and the plant kingdom. By hunting and consuming other animals, zoophagous species also obtain essential nutrients, particularly proteins, that they need for their growth and survival.

   In addition to carnivores, some insects are also considered zoophagous, such as certain species of beetles, ants, and wasps that prey on other insects or small animals. These insects contribute to pest control by eliminating harmful insects that may pose threats to crops or human health.

   Overall, the term zoophagous is used to describe organisms that primarily rely on a diet consisting of other animals in order to sustain their life processes and nutrition requirements.

2. Subsisting on animal food, carnivorous.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

3. Feeding or preying on other animals.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for ZOOPHAGOUS

The word "zoophagous" is derived from two Greek roots. The first part, "zoo", comes from the Greek word "zōion" meaning "animal". The second part, "phagous", comes from the Greek verb "phagein", which means "to eat". Therefore, "zoophagous" combines these roots to describe something that feeds on or eats animals.