hygropetric

Definition

Describing a habitat or environmental condition characterized by wet, often slick surfaces, such as those found on rocks close to waterfalls or streams, where certain specialized insects and arachnids may live.

Etymology

From Greek 'hygro-', meaning 'wet' or 'moist', and 'petra', meaning 'rock'.

Example

The hygropetric environment near the waterfall supports a unique biota of insects and arachnids adapted to constantly moist conditions.

Synonyms

• wet rocky

Related Terms

• aquatic
• saturated
• moist habitat

Usage Notes

Hygropetric environments are rare and often support specialized, sometimes endemic, species adapted to the unique conditions.