aplodontiidae

noun

Meaning

A taxonomic family of rodents that includes only one extant species, the mountain beaver (Aplodontia rufa), known for its primitive dental structure and burrowing habits.

Examples

  • The family Aplodontiidae represents one of the most ancient and distinct lineages within the order Rodentia.
  • Evolutionary biologists study the Aplodontiidae to understand how certain rodent traits have remained unchanged for millions of years.