Subfamily Mephitinae refers to a classification of skunks within the family Mephitidae. These animals are known for their distinctive and pungent odor, which they use as a defense mechanism against predators. Synonyms for the term could include "skunk subfamily," "Mephitid subfamily," or "striped skunk subfamily." Within this subfamily, there are several different species of skunks, including the hooded skunk, the hog-nosed skunk, and the spotted skunk. Despite their notorious reputation, skunks are an important part of many ecosystems, playing a variety of roles such as predator control and seed dispersal.