Caniformia
Caniformia (pronounced: /kænɪˈfɔːrmiə/), also known as Canoidea and commonly referred to as the dog-like carnivorans, is a suborder within the order Carnivora. They include dogs, bears, wolves, foxes, raccoons, badgers, and mustelids.
Etymology
The term "Caniformia" comes from the Latin words "canis" (meaning dog) and "forma" (meaning shape or form). Thus, it translates to "dog-like" in English.
Characteristics
Caniforms typically have long snouts, non-retractile claws, and a simple stomach adapted for a diet that includes a significant amount of plant material. They are generally found throughout the world, in a variety of habitats, including forests, deserts, and arctic tundra.
Classification
Caniformia is divided into two superfamilies: Canidae (dogs, wolves, foxes, etc.) and Arctoidea (bears, raccoons, weasels, etc.). Each superfamily is further divided into a number of families and species.
Evolution
The Caniformia suborder is believed to have first appeared during the Eocene epoch, around 40 million years ago. They evolved from the Miacidae, a family of primitive carnivores that also gave rise to the Feliformia (cat-like carnivores).
See also
References
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