How Do You Spell MACTRA?

Pronunciation: [mˈaktɹə] (IPA)

The spelling of the word "Mactra" can be confusing for English speakers because it doesn't follow the usual phonetic rules of the language. The word is derived from Latin and has a specific pronunciation, which is reflected in its IPA phonetic transcription: /ˈmæktɹə/. The first syllable is pronounced with the "a" sound as in "cat." The "-ctra" part is pronounced with a soft "r" sound and a schwa vowel in the middle. Understanding the proper spelling and pronunciation of the word is important for those interested in marine biology, as Mactra is a genus of saltwater clams.

MACTRA Meaning and Definition

1. Mactra is a term that primarily refers to a genus of marine bivalve mollusks belonging to the family Mactridae. These mollusks are commonly known as trough shells or surf clams. The name "Mactra" is derived from the Latin word "mactra," which means "a kind of a shellfish."

   Members of the Mactra genus are typically found in sandy or muddy substrates in coastal areas, particularly in temperate and warmer regions worldwide. They have a triangular, elongated, and slightly convex shell, with hinges on the back that allow them to open and close. Mactra species are known to have smooth or ribbed shells, and their coloration can vary from white, gray, or yellowish to brownish.

   These mollusks are filter feeders, using their muscular foot to burrow into the sediment and extend a long siphon to extract nutrients and oxygen from the water above. They primarily feed on microscopic plankton, detritus, and organic matter available in their environment.

   Mactra species are economically significant as a food source in many parts of the world. They are harvested both commercially and recreationally for their meat, which is often used in various culinary preparations, such as stews, soups, and pasta dishes. Additionally, their shells are sometimes collected and used for decorative purposes like shellcraft or in landscaping.

2. A well-known littoral bivalve, inhabiting sandy and muddy shores-so named from a fanciful allusion to its shape.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for MACTRA

• nactra
• kactra
• jactra
• mzctra
• msctra
• mwctra
• mqctra
• maxtra
• mavtra
• madtra
• macfra
• macgra
• macyra
• mac6ra
• mac5ra
• mactea
• mactda
• mactfa
• mactta

Etymology of MACTRA

The word "Mactra" is derived from the Latin term "mactra", which originally referred to a type of large sea clam. The Latin word "mactra" is believed to have its roots in the Ancient Greek term "maktras", which also denoted a type of clam or shellfish. The exact origins and linguistic evolution of the Greek term are unclear.