Is there a collective noun for "reptiles & amphibians"? (1 Viewer)

J

jamangus

Well-known member

• Nov 24, 2005

• #1

In other words:
herpetology = the branch of zoology
herpetologist = the person studying said branch
??? = the actual critters

I tend to shorthand "herps" when referencing reptiles and amphibians, but this often does not translate well...

herpetods?
herpetiles?

B

 

C

cavan wood

Well-known member

• Nov 24, 2005

• #2

Herptiles
http://www.herptiles.net/

Scott

 

Isurus

Well-known member

• Nov 24, 2005

• #3

cavan wood said:

Herptiles
http://www.herptiles.net/

Scott

Click to expand...

yep - although I understand the literal translatory meaning of herptiles is "creeping things" which could cover anything.

 

B

Beany

Well-known member

• Nov 24, 2005

• #4

Most scientists will use 'herpetofauna' rather than 'herptiles'. 'Herptile' is a recently made-up word with no real linguistic roots, seems to be just a cross between 'herpetofauna' and 'reptile'.

I often say 'herps' personally.

 

B

Bushbaby

Active member

• Nov 24, 2005

• #5

We usually call them herptofauna, or call them herps.