What concept inspired the selection of Kiwa as the genus name for the Yeti Crab?
Answer
The Polynesian goddess of thieves
The scientific nomenclature assigned to *Kiwa hirsuta* reflects multiple facets of its discovery and appearance. While *hirsuta* refers to its hairy nature, the genus name, *Kiwa*, was chosen based on mythology. Specifically, *Kiwa* is derived from the name of the Polynesian goddess associated with thieves. This naming choice may have been intended to reference the novelty of finding such a unique creature during deep-sea exploration, or perhaps allude to its hidden existence deep beneath the surface before its discovery.
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