"Catalog" - what is it, definition of the term
«A catalog» is a structured compilation that enumerates items, attributes, or entries, organized to enable efficient retrieval and comparison; in the context of rodent research it may list rats and mice, providing taxonomic identifiers, morphological measurements, habitat descriptions, and reference data, thereby supporting systematic analysis and inventory management.
Detailed information
The term refers to a systematic inventory of rodent taxa, specifically focusing on rats and mice. This inventory organizes information by taxonomic rank, geographical distribution, morphological traits, and ecological roles, allowing researchers to locate relevant data efficiently.
Each entry includes the scientific name, common name, diagnostic characteristics, and habitat preferences. For instance, the brown rat (Rattus norvegicus) is listed with details on its robust body, adaptability to urban environments, and omnivorous diet. The house mouse (Mus musculus) appears with notes on its small size, preference for human dwellings, and rapid reproductive cycle.
Key sections of the inventory provide:
- Taxonomic classification: order, family, genus, species.
- Morphological description: body length, weight range, fur coloration.
- Geographic range: continents, specific regions, introduced areas.
- Behavioral ecology: feeding habits, social structure, nesting behavior.
- Health relevance: disease vectors, zoonotic potential, control measures.
Supplementary data include references to peer‑reviewed studies, genetic sequence identifiers, and conservation status assessments. By consolidating these elements, the inventory serves as a comprehensive reference for taxonomists, epidemiologists, and wildlife managers engaged with rat and mouse populations.