Cavia

/ˈkeɪ.vi.ə/ noun

Definition

The genus name for guinea pigs; a rodent native to South America.

Etymology

From New Latin scientific nomenclature, possibly from Tupi or other indigenous Amazonian languages where guinea pigs originated.

Kelly Says

Guinea pigs aren't from Guinea, aren't pigs, and originated in the Andes—their scientific name Cavia is more honest about their actual South American roots.

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