What is the scientific name of the dodo bird? The biological name for a dodo bird is Raphus cucullatus.
The dodo bird is considered one of the most famous examples of an extinct species in the world. It has been synonymous with extinction since it was declared extinct in Mauritius. In this article, we shall discuss the dodo bird scientific name, its correct biological classification, its correct biological classification, and other important facts about this important bird species.
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What Is the Dodo Scientific Name?
The scientific name of the dodo bird is Raphus cucullatus. On the African island of Mauritius, the dodo bird also goes by the scientific classification of Raphus cucullatus:
- Genus: Raphus;
- Species: cucullatus.
Scientists gave the dodo bird its scientific name so that they could categorize it properly according to fossil records and other related species. The scientific name enables scientists to categorize and trace dodo relatives in the avian tree.
Dodo Bird Scientific Classification
The complete scientific classification of the dodo bird is:
| Taxonomic Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Raphus |
| Species | Raphus cucullatus |
The dodo was a bird species in the family Columbidae, which includes modern pigeons and doves, although it looked different. However, it was related to existing birds.
Is the Dodo Related to Other Birds?
Yes. It follows the scientific name and classification and indicates that the bird is the same as pigeons and doves. The nearest living relatives of the dodo are Nicobar pigeons (Caloenas nicobarica).
Scientists extracted DNA from dodo bones and compared it with those of modern birds. There’s evidence that the dodo was a member of the Columbidae.
Interesting Facts on the Dodo Bird
- The dodo is said to weigh about 15-20 kg (33-44 lbs).
- It towers approximately three feet tall.
- The dodo laid only one egg at a time, making reproduction slow.
- This bird had no natural fear, which quickened its extinction.
Summary on dodo bird scientific name
The scientific name of the dodo is Raphus cucullatus. It was an extinct bird from Mauritius that died out in the 1600s. Although now extinct, the dodo bird is still an important organism in historical and scientific studies. Learning about the scientific name of the dodo bird helps us study how species evolve and what happens when ecosystems are disrupted.
