TAPIRUS KABOMANI Meaning and
Definition
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Tapirus kabomani, also known as the kabomani tapir, is a species of small tapir found in the Amazon rainforest of South America. It is the smallest and least known species of tapir, with recent scientific discovery and taxonomic classification in 2013.
The tapirus kabomani is characterized by its small size, measuring approximately 1.8 meters in length and weighing around 150 kilograms. It has a distinct short trunk with a flexible snout, which it uses for foraging food, drinking water, and exploring its surroundings. This tapir species has a unique reddish-brown or dark-brown coat, which aids in camouflage within its forest habitat.
As a herbivorous mammal, the kabomani tapir primarily feeds on leaves, fruits, and tender shoots. It is a solitary creature and tends to be shy and elusive, making it particularly challenging to study and observe in the wild. The tapirus kabomani is mainly found in remote and dense areas of rainforests, close to freshwater sources such as rivers or streams.
Due to its limited range and constant habitat fragmentation caused by deforestation and human activities, the tapirus kabomani is considered vulnerable to extinction. Efforts are ongoing to protect its natural habitat and raise awareness about the importance of its conservation. Further research is necessary to better understand the behavior, population, and ecological role of this unique and captivating species of tapir.
Etymology of TAPIRUS KABOMANI
The word "Tapirus kabomani" is derived from two main components - "Tapirus" and "kabomani".
"Tapirus" refers to the genus of large, herbivorous mammals known as tapirs. Tapirs are native to Central and South America, as well as Southeast Asia.
The second part, "kabomani", is a specific epithet that is derived from the name of the Kabomani River in Brazil. This river flows through the region where Tapirus kabomani was first discovered.
Therefore, "Tapirus kabomani" essentially means "the tapir from the Kabomani River". It is the scientific name given to a recently discovered species of tapir found in the Amazon region of Brazil.
