Altricial
Altricial (al-TRISH-ul, from Latin altrix, "nurse") is a term used in zoology to describe a pattern of growth and development in organisms, particularly birds, which are incapable of moving around on their own soon after hatching or being born. The young are typically born or hatched in an undeveloped state, often lacking full sight and feathers, and require care from parents or adult animals.
Etymology
The term altricial is derived from the Latin word altrix, meaning "nurse". This refers to the need for young altricial animals to be fed and taken care of by their parents.
Characteristics
Altricial species are typically characterized by long gestation or incubation periods, followed by birth or hatching into a state where the young are helpless and require care from adults. This is in contrast to precocial species, where the young are relatively mature and mobile from the moment of birth or hatching.
Examples
Examples of altricial species include most mammals (including humans), and many species of birds, such as sparrows and ravens. These species give birth to relatively undeveloped young, and the parents must care for the young by bringing them food and protecting them from predators.
See also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Altricial
- Wikipedia's article - Altricial
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