Definition

Noun: * A genus of pinnipeds within the family Otariidae, commonly known as fur seals. These are eared seals characterized by a thick underfur beneath their longer guard hairs, which historically made them the target of commercial sealing.

Usage

• The term "genus Arctocephalus" is used in scientific and zoological contexts to classify and discuss a specific group of marine mammals.
• It is typically used with a singular verb, as it refers to a single taxonomic category.
• Example: "Genus Arctocephalus comprises several species found in the Southern Hemisphere."

Examples

• The population recovery of genus Arctocephalus after centuries of overhunting is a key conservation story.
• Researchers are studying the migratory patterns of genus Arctocephalus.
• A key distinguishing feature of genus Arctocephalus is the presence of dense underfur.

Advanced Usage

• In formal taxonomic writing, the genus name is always italicized: Arctocephalus. When used in the full binomial nomenclature for a species, the genus name is capitalized and italicized, followed by the specific epithet (e.g., Arctocephalus gazella, the Antarctic fur seal).

Variants and Related Words

• Arctocephalus (n): The standardized, italicized form of the genus name used in scientific literature.
• Fur seal (n): The common name for any seal within genus (and the closely related genus ).
• Otariid (n): A member of the family Otariidae, which includes both fur seals (genera and ) and sea lions.

Synonyms

• Fur seals (common name)

Related Terms (Scientific Context)

• Pinniped (n): The order (Pinnipedia) that includes seals, sea lions, and walruses.
• Otariidae (n): The family of eared seals, to which this genus belongs.
• Phocidae (n): The family of true or earless seals, which are a different group from fur seals.

Noun

1. fur seals