GENERA Meaning and
Definition
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Genera, in the context of biology and taxonomy, refer to the plural form of the word "genus." A genus is a classification category in the hierarchical system of biological classification, ranking below family and above species. It is used to group together closely related organisms that share common characteristics and ancestry.
Genera are distinguished from other taxa based on similarities in morphology, genetic composition, and evolutionary relationships. Organisms within the same genus have more in common with each other than they do with organisms from other genera. The classification of organisms into distinct genera helps scientists organize and understand the vast diversity of life on Earth.
Each genus is denoted by a unique Latin or Latinized name, written in italics and capitalized. For example, the genus Homo includes all modern and extinct species of humans, such as Homo sapiens (modern humans) and Homo neanderthalensis (Neanderthals). Similarly, the genus Panthera includes big cat species like Panthera leo (lions), Panthera tigris (tigers), and Panthera pardus (leopards).
Understanding the relationships between genera is crucial for studying biodiversity, evolutionary history, and ecological interactions within ecosystems. By examining the characteristics and evolutionary patterns of organisms within a genus, scientists can gain insights into the processes that drive biological diversity and inform conservation efforts.
Overall, genera play a fundamental role in the classification and study of organisms, providing a framework for organizing and understanding the vast array of life forms on our planet.
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That which has several species under it; a group; a kind.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
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Etymology of GENERA
The word "genera" comes from Latin, where it is the plural form of the word "genus". In Latin, "genus" means "birth, origin, kind, class, or race". It derives from the Proto-Indo-European root *gen- meaning "to give birth, to beget". Over time, "genus" evolved to refer to a class or category in biological classification. The plural form "genera" is commonly used in biology to denote the taxonomic rank that comes above species and below family.
Similar spelling words for GENERA
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