Eudyptes
Definition
Eudyptes is the most species-rich penguin genus, containing the crested penguins: macaroni, royal, eastern rockhopper, western rockhopper, northern rockhopper, Fiordland, Snares, and erect-crested penguins. The name means 'good diver' in Greek. All Eudyptes species are characterised by yellow or orange crest feathers, aggressive temperaments, and a unique reproductive strategy called obligate brood reduction — they lay two eggs of different sizes but almost always raise only one chick. Most Eudyptes species breed on remote sub-Antarctic islands.
Related Terms
Spheniscidae is the biological family that contains all living penguin species.
Crest feathers are elongated, brightly coloured plumes found on the heads of crested penguin species in the genus Eudyptes.
Obligate brood reduction is a reproductive strategy unique to crested penguins (Eudyptes) in which two eggs are laid but only one chick is raised.
Related Species
Species where eudyptes is especially relevant.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does eudyptes mean in penguin biology?
Eudyptes is the most species-rich penguin genus, containing the crested penguins: macaroni, royal, eastern rockhopper, western rockhopper, northern rockhopper, Fiordland, Snares, and erect-crested penguins. The name means 'good diver' in Greek. All Eudyptes species are characterised by yellow or orange crest feathers, aggressive temperaments, and a unique reproductive strategy called obligate brood reduction — they lay two eggs of different sizes but almost always raise only one chick. Most Eudyptes species breed on remote sub-Antarctic islands.
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Glossary entries define the language. FAQ answers common questions; guides carry the longer Survival Lab arguments.
More in taxonomyWhere this definition comes from
Reference bodies behind the taxonomy terminology. Links last checked August 5, 2026.
- IUCN Red List - Global conservation assessments and extinction-risk categories.
- BirdLife Data Zone - Species accounts, distribution, and population summaries.
- Australian Museum - Little penguin biology and coastal breeding behavior.