Definition
hyracoids
noun
- plural of hyracoid; small, hoofed mammals native to Africa and the Middle East, resembling rodents but more closely related to elephants and manatees.
Usage: zoology; also called hyraxes or dassies
Examples
- Hyracoids are found in rocky habitats throughout Africa and parts of the Middle East.
- Despite their small size, hyracoids are surprisingly closely related to large mammals like elephants.
- The rock hyracoid is one of the most common species of hyracoids in East Africa.
- Hyracoids have specialized foot pads that help them climb steep rocky terrain.
- Scientists were surprised to learn that hyracoids share a common ancestor with proboscideans.