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Subfamily Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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subfamily

[sʌbˈfæmili ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

biological classification

A subfamily is a taxonomic rank situated below a family and above a genus in the hierarchical classification of living organisms. It is used in biological taxonomy to group together related organisms that share certain characteristics. Subfamilies are often denoted by a suffix, such as '-inae' in zoology. The classification helps scientists and researchers communicate more effectively about biodiversity and the relationships between different species.

Synonyms

classification, division, subcategory.

Examples of usage

  • The Felinae subfamily includes all modern cats.
  • In the Papilionidae family, the subfamily Parnassiinae is notable for its beautiful butterflies.
  • Researchers study the subfamily of plants to understand evolutionary patterns.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Biology

  • The concept of subfamilies helps organize living organisms into categories, making it easier for scientists to study them.
  • Each subfamily contains genera (plural of genus), which includes species that are more closely related to each other than to species in other subfamilies.
  • For example, in the family of cats, the subfamily Felinae includes domestic cats, lions, and tigers.

Culture

  • In language, subfamilies describe groups of related dialects, similar to how some languages, like Spanish and Portuguese, are part of the Romance language subfamily.
  • Understanding subfamilies can aid in cultural studies, showing how various languages or species have evolved and spread over time.

Education

  • Subfamilies are commonly taught in school science classes, using examples like the classification of animals to help students learn about biodiversity.
  • Recognizing subfamilies reinforces the idea of hierarchy in both biology and taxonomy, which is essential in scientific education.

Conservation

  • Identifying subfamilies can help in conservation efforts, as it highlights the relationships between different species and their ecological roles.
  • Protecting a subfamily of endangered animals can contribute to the overall health of the ecosystem they belong to.

Origin of 'subfamily'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'subfamily' is derived from the Latin prefix 'sub-', meaning 'under' or 'below', combined with 'family', which comes from the Latin 'familia'.
  • The use of this term in biological classification began to gain ground in the 19th century, as scientists sought to better categorize organisms.

The term 'subfamily' originated in the early 19th century as biologists began formally classifying living organisms based on shared characteristics. The prefix 'sub-' derives from Latin, meaning 'under' or 'below,' which is used in various scientific terms to indicate a lower or subordinate rank. The concept of the family in biological classification was developed during the time of Carl Linnaeus, whose systematic approach laid the groundwork for modern taxonomy. As scientists expanded their understanding of the relationships between different species, the need for additional ranks like subfamily became apparent to accurately denote smaller groups within larger families. This hierarchical system continues to be refined with advances in genetics and evolutionary biology.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #20,913, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.