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English

amphiumidae

|am-phi-u-mi-dae|

C2

/æmˈfjuːmɪˌdeɪ/

elongated aquatic salamanders

Etymology
Etymology Information

'amphiumidae' originates from Greek, specifically the word 'amphi,' meaning 'both' or 'double,' and 'ium,' a diminutive suffix.

Historical Evolution

'amphi' combined with 'ium' to form the genus name 'Amphiuma,' which eventually led to the family name 'amphiumidae.'

Meaning Changes

Initially, it referred to the dual nature of the limbs, and this meaning has remained consistent in modern taxonomy.

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

a family of aquatic salamanders known for their elongated bodies and reduced limbs, native to the southeastern United States.

The amphiumidae are often mistaken for eels due to their appearance.

Synonyms

Last updated: 2025/07/23 07:21