What does XERUS mean?

Xerus 1. Parts of Speech

Noun

2. Definitions

Xerus is a genus of African ground squirrels that are known for their distinctive stripes and bushy tails. There are four species in the genus, including the common striped ground squirrel (Xerus erythropus) and the unstriped ground squirrel (Xerus rutilus).

3. Pronunciations (US, UK)

US: /ˈzɪərəs/

UK: /ˈzɪərəs/

4. Origin and Usage

The word "xerus" comes from the Greek word "xeros," which means "dry." The genus was first described by the German naturalist Johann Christian Daniel von Schreber in 1778. Xerus squirrels are found in savannas, grasslands, and rocky areas throughout sub-Saharan Africa.

5. Synonyms

African ground squirrel, striped ground squirrel, unstriped ground squirrel

6. Related Words

genus, squirrel, genus

7. Example Sentences

• The common striped ground squirrel (Xerus erythropus) is found in eastern and southern Africa.
• The unstriped ground squirrel (Xerus rutilus) is found in western and central Africa.
• Xerus squirrels are known for their distinctive stripes and bushy tails.
• Some species of Xerus squirrels are kept as pets in parts of Africa.