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crabeater

/kræbiˈtiːə/ noun · British & US
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What does crabeater mean?

The crabeater seal is a type of seal that feeds mainly on krill, found in the Antarctic and sub-Antarctic waters. It is the most abundant species of seal in the world, with a population of over 15 million. Crabeater seals are found in large colonies on the ice floes of Antarctica and are an important part of the marine ecosystem. They are also an important species for scientists and conservationists, who study their behavior and population dynamics to better understand the impacts of climate change on marine ecosystems. The term 'crabeater' is often used in scientific and conservation contexts to refer to this species of seal.

noun

A type of seal (Lobodon carcinophagus) that feeds mainly on krill, found in the Antarctic and sub-Antarctic waters.

Senses
  1. A type of seal (Lobodon carcinophagus) that feeds mainly on krill.
Example

"The crabeater seal is the most abundant species of seal in the world, with a population of over 15 million."

More examples

"The crabeater seal is the most abundant species of seal in the world, with a population of over 15 million."

"Crabeater seals are found in large colonies on the ice floes of Antarctica."

Plural crabeaters

The plural form 'crabeaters' is used to refer to multiple individuals of this species.

Example

"A large colony of crabeaters was observed on the ice floes of Antarctica."

Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.

Etymology of crabeater

The term 'crabeater' is derived from the fact that this species of seal feeds mainly on krill, which are small crustaceans that are often referred to as 'crab' in informal contexts. The name 'crabeater' was likely given to this species because of its diet and its physical characteristics, which are similar to those of other seals.

How crabeater is actually used

The term 'crabeater' is often used in scientific and conservation contexts to refer to this species of seal.

What's another word for crabeater?

Rhymes with crabeater