Species Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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species
[ˈspiːʃiːz ]
Definitions
biology
A group of living organisms consisting of similar individuals capable of exchanging genes or interbreeding.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| species |
Used when referring to a group of living organisms that share common characteristics and can interbreed.
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| breed |
Typically used in the context of domesticated animals or plants that have been selectively bred for specific characteristics.
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| type |
Often used in a general sense to classify varieties or kinds based on common characteristics, not limited to biological contexts.
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| variety |
Commonly used to describe different forms or versions within a species, often in the context of cultivated plants and sometimes animals.
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Examples of usage
- This national park is home to a wide variety of species.
- The endangered species needs protection to prevent extinction.
taxonomy
A category in the classification of organisms, ranking below a genus and consisting of related organisms capable of interbreeding.
Synonyms
category, classification, taxon.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| species |
Used primarily in biology to refer to a group of living organisms consisting of similar individuals capable of exchanging genes or interbreeding.
|
| taxon |
A term used in biology to name a unit of any rank in the hierarchy of biological classification (e.g., species, genus, family).
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| classification |
Refers to the process or result of categorizing something according to shared qualities or characteristics, often used in scientific contexts.
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| category |
Used in general contexts to group items based on certain characteristics or criteria, not limited to biology.
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Examples of usage
- The species name of humans is Homo sapiens.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Biodiversity
- There are estimated to be over 8 million different species on Earth, yet many remain undiscovered.
- Each species plays a unique role in its ecosystem, contributing to the balance of nature.
- The loss of species, known as biodiversity loss, can lead to significant environmental issues.
Science
- In sexual reproduction, a species typically has individuals that can mate and produce fertile offspring.
- A species can be categorized as extinct, endangered, or thriving, affecting conservation efforts.
- Researchers often study the genetic material of species to understand evolution and relationships among organisms.
Cultural Perspectives
- Many cultures have unique names and stories associated with specific species, reflecting their values and beliefs.
- Species are often symbols in art and literature, representing themes of nature, change, and survival.
- Conservation efforts are influenced by cultural perceptions of beauty or utility in certain species.
Pop Culture
- Movies like 'Jurassic Park' highlight the fascination with extinct species and our desire to understand past life forms.
- Video games often depict species in fantasy and science fiction settings, inviting exploration of imaginary wildlife.
- Nature documentaries educate audiences on diverse species, bringing awareness to their characteristics and habitats.
Origin of 'species'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'species', meaning 'appearance' or 'form'.
- It has been used in scientific language since the work of Carl Linnaeus in the 18th century.
- In biology, 'species' helps scientists classify living things based on shared traits.
The word 'species' comes from the Latin word 'species', meaning 'a particular sort, kind, or type'. The concept of species has been central to biology since the 18th century when Carl Linnaeus developed the system of binomial nomenclature. The classification of organisms into species has been essential for understanding biodiversity and evolution.