The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook

✔ Add 3,700 must-know words to your vocabulary.

✔ All-in-one: dictionary, thesaurus, & workbook.

✔ 147 categorized lessons, 428 practical activities.

✔ Suitable for students & professionals of all ages.

✔ Ideal preparation for: TOEFL, TOEIC, IELTS, SAT, ACT, GRE, GMAT, CPE, BEC, PTE, FCE

Buy on Amazon

4.8

Improve Your Vocabulary Today!

fauna

noun

/ˈfɔːnə/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of fauna

The collective assemblage of animal species that inhabit a specific region, ecosystem, or geographical area.
"The photographer captured stunning images of the fauna in the wildlife sanctuary."

Detailed meaning of fauna

It encompasses the entire animal kingdom, ranging from the smallest microorganisms to the largest mammals. Fauna is a critical component of Earth's biodiversity and plays a crucial role in ecosystems by contributing to their structure and functioning. The term is often used in ecological and scientific contexts to describe the diversity, distribution, and interactions of animal life in a particular habitat or on a global scale. Fauna can vary significantly from one region to another due to environmental factors, including climate, geography, and habitat types, and it provides valuable insights into the natural world and the intricate web of life on our planet. Overall, "fauna" represents the rich tapestry of animal life that inhabits Earth's diverse landscapes and ecosystems.

Example sentences containing fauna

1. The Amazon rainforest boasts incredible biodiversity, with its diverse fauna captivating scientists.
2. African savannas are teeming with majestic fauna, from elephants to lions.
3. Marine biologists study the rich fauna of coral reefs, home to countless species.
4. Australia's unique fauna includes kangaroos, koalas, and the elusive platypus.
5. Antarctica's harsh conditions support a resilient but limited fauna of penguins and seals.
6. The Galápagos Islands are renowned for their unique and diverse marine fauna.

History and etymology of fauna

The noun 'fauna' has its etymological origins in Roman mythology. It is named after Fauna, the goddess of fertility and the forest in Roman mythology, who was often associated with wildlife and animals. The term 'fauna' was later adopted into biology to describe the collective assemblage of animal species that inhabit a specific region, ecosystem, or geographical area. The word 'fauna' retains its historical connection to the goddess and the realm of animals and wildlife, emphasizing the rich tapestry of living creatures found in different environments and regions.

Quiz: Find the meaning of the noun fauna:

answer1

answer2

answer3

answer4

Try Again!

Correct!

Continue Quiz

Further usage examples of fauna

1. Conservation efforts aim to protect the endangered fauna of Madagascar's forests.
2. The Arctic tundra may appear barren, but it hosts a hardy and adapted fauna.
3. The Serengeti's annual wildebeest migration is a remarkable event in African fauna.
4. Coral bleaching threatens the delicate balance of the Great Barrier Reef's fauna.
5. Galapagos tortoises are iconic members of the archipelago's distinctive fauna.
6. The African savanna's charismatic megafauna attracts wildlife enthusiasts.
7. The fauna of the Sahara Desert includes desert foxes, scorpions, and camels.
8. The Amazon River sustains a remarkable aquatic fauna, including piranhas and river dolphins.
9. Madagascar's fragmented forests house a unique, fragmented fauna of lemurs.
10. The African elephant is one of the most emblematic species in the continent's fauna.
11. In the depths of the ocean, scientists discover new, mysterious fauna regularly.
12. The African bushveld is alive with a chorus of nocturnal fauna after sunset.
13. The Arctic's frozen waters are home to a surprisingly diverse marine fauna.
14. Australia's diverse fauna plays a crucial role in its fragile ecosystems.
15. The national park was home to a diverse range of flora and fauna.
16. The scientist studied the fauna of the ocean floor.
17. The zoo had a special exhibit featuring the fauna of the African savannah.
18. The new book catalogued the flora and fauna of the Amazon rainforest.
19. The nature preserve was established to protect the local fauna.
20. The documentary showcased the fascinating fauna of the Arctic tundra.
21. The naturalist led a tour of the park's unique flora and fauna.
22. The museum had an impressive collection of fossils and prehistoric fauna.
23. The nature enthusiast was fascinated by the diversity of flora and fauna in the area.
24. The conservationist worked tirelessly to preserve the endangered fauna of the region.