The spelling of the word "serota" may seem unusual, but it's actually based on its pronunciation. In IPA phonetic transcription, it is spelled /səˈroʊtə/. The first syllable is pronounced with a schwa sound, as in "sofa". The following syllable has a long "o" sound, like in "ocean". The final syllable is pronounced with a short "a" sound as in "cat". So, the spelling "serota" accurately reflects its pronunciation.