Abrocoma

/ˌæbrəˈkoʊmə/ noun

Definition

A genus of South American rodents related to chinchillas, known for their soft fur and gentle appearance.

Etymology

Modern scientific Latin genus name, possibly from Greek elements but ultimate origin uncertain; named in the 19th century by naturalists studying Andean wildlife.

Kelly Says

The abrocoma is so little-known that most dictionaries skip it entirely—yet it's a living example of how naturalists gave Greek-sounding names to creatures they barely understood in remote mountain regions.

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