Azara’s fox is a small, elusive mammal that is native to South America. Despite its name, it is not actually a fox but belongs to the genus Lycalopex. This species is also known by other common names such as Azara’s zorro, Azara’s dog, and Azara’s gray fox. In this article, we will explore the definition, origin, meaning, associations, synonyms, antonyms, and example sentences related to Azara’s fox.
Definitions
Azara’s fox is a small, carnivorous mammal that is part of the Canidae family. It is typically found in the grasslands and shrublands of South America, including Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, and Paraguay. The species is known for its reddish-brown fur, long bushy tail, and pointed ears.
Origin
Azara’s fox is named after Spanish naturalist Felix de Azara, who first described the species in 1801. The scientific name for Azara’s fox is Lycalopex gymnocercus. It is believed that the species evolved from a common ancestor of the South American foxes, which diverged from the North American foxes around 6 million years ago.
Meaning in different dictionaries
The meaning of Azara’s fox can vary depending on the dictionary consulted. For example, the Oxford English Dictionary defines it as “a small South American fox, Lycalopex gymnocercus, with reddish-brown fur and a bushy tail.” The Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines it as “a small gray fox (Lycalopex gymnocercus) of South America.”
Associations
Azara’s fox is associated with the grasslands and shrublands of South America. It is also associated with the Canidae family, which includes other species such as wolves, coyotes, and domestic dogs. In some cultures, foxes are associated with cunning and intelligence.
Synonyms
Azara’s fox is known by several synonyms, including Azara’s zorro, Azara’s dog, Azara’s gray fox, and Pampas fox. These names are used interchangeably in different regions of South America.
Antonyms
There are no direct antonyms for Azara’s fox, as it is a specific species of mammal. However, other animals in the Canidae family, such as wolves and coyotes, could be considered antonyms in terms of their size and behavior.
The same root words
The scientific name for Azara’s fox, Lycalopex gymnocercus, is derived from Greek and Latin root words. “Lycalopex” means “wolf-like fox,” while “gymnocercus” means “bare-tailed.”
Example Sentences
- Azara’s fox is a small, elusive mammal found in the grasslands of South America.
- The reddish-brown fur of Azara’s fox helps it blend into its environment.
- Azara’s fox is not actually a fox, but belongs to the genus Lycalopex.
- Azara’s fox is known for its pointed ears and long bushy tail.
- In some cultures, foxes like Azara’s fox are associated with cunning and intelligence.