What does mastology, also known as theriology, study?
Mastology, also referred to as theriology and therology, is the field of scientific study that focuses on mammals.
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What does mastology, also known as theriology, study?
Mammals, a class of vertebrates, possess distinct characteristics such as homeothermic metabolism, fur or hair covering their bodies, four-chambered hearts, and complex nervous systems.
The study of mastology involves an extensive collection of data on Earth's mammalian species. As of current records, there are approximately 6,495 different known mammal species, including those that have become recently extinct. Among these, 5,416 mammal species are still living, with approximately 1,251 newly discovered since the year 2006. The field of mammalogy encompasses various major branches, including natural history, taxonomy and systematics, anatomy and physiology, ethology (animal behavior), ecology, and management and control of mammalian populations.
Historically, the study of mammals can be traced back to ancient Greece, where the first documented investigations were conducted. Greek scholars, such as Aristotle, extensively researched mammals, documenting species that were not native to Greece as well as those that were. It was Aristotle who recognized whales and dolphins as mammals, a significant observation considering that the study of mammals primarily revolved around taxonomy until the 18th century.
For further information on mammalogy, one can refer to reputable sources like Wikipedia (en.wikipedia.org) which provide more comprehensive details and insights into this field of study.
Step 2: Answer to the question "What does mastology, also known as theriology, study?"
Mastology, theriology, and therology are all terms that encompass the study of mammals. This scientific discipline delves into the characteristics, behaviors, anatomy, physiology, ecology, and management of mammals. Mammals, as a class of animals, exhibit distinct features like warm-bloodedness, the presence of fur or hair, the possession of four-chambered hearts, and complex nervous systems. By examining these aspects, mastologists seek to gain a deeper understanding of the diverse mammalian species inhabiting our planet.
What does mastology
It is noteworthy that the number of recognized mammal species is continually expanding. Currently, the known count stands at 6,495 different species, including those that have recently gone extinct. Out of these, 5,416 mammal species are still extant, and since 2006, approximately 1,251 new species have been discovered. The field of mastology encompasses various branches, including natural history, taxonomy and systematics, anatomy and physiology, ethology, ecology, and management and control.
The ancient Greeks were among the earliest scholars to embark on mammalian research. Despite studying mammals that were not native to Greece, they made significant contributions to the understanding of these creatures. Aristotle, a renowned Greek philosopher and scientist, notably identified whales and dolphins as mammals, pioneering the recognition of their classification. Taxonomy played a prominent role in the study of mammals until the 18th century when scientific investigations expanded into other areas.
To explore mastology further, reliable sources such as Wikipedia (en.wikipedia.org) provide comprehensive information, allowing individuals to delve into the intricacies of this fascinating field.
