Megadyptes
Definition
Megadyptes is a genus containing a single living species: the yellow-eyed penguin (M. antipodes), also known as hoiho in Maori. The genus name means 'large diver'. The yellow-eyed penguin is one of the rarest penguin species, with a total population estimated at around 4,000 individuals. Unlike most penguins, yellow-eyed penguins are solitary nesters that prefer forest or scrubland rather than open colonies. A second species, M. waitaha, went extinct after Polynesian settlement of New Zealand around the 13th century.
Related Terms
Related Species
Species where megadyptes is especially relevant.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does megadyptes mean in penguin biology?
Megadyptes is a genus containing a single living species: the yellow-eyed penguin (M. antipodes), also known as hoiho in Maori. The genus name means 'large diver'. The yellow-eyed penguin is one of the rarest penguin species, with a total population estimated at around 4,000 individuals. Unlike most penguins, yellow-eyed penguins are solitary nesters that prefer forest or scrubland rather than open colonies. A second species, M. waitaha, went extinct after Polynesian settlement of New Zealand around the 13th century.