genus sorex
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Definition
Noun: 1. A taxonomic genus within the family Soricidae: Genus Sorex is the type genus for the family Soricidae, which encompasses a large group of small, insectivorous mammals commonly known as shrews. Members of this genus are characterized by their pointed snouts, tiny eyes, and dense fur.
Usage Examples
- Noun:
- The biologist classified the new shrew specimen within genus Sorex based on its dental structure.
- A common species in genus Sorex is the Eurasian common shrew, Sorex araneus.
- The study focused on the evolutionary history of genus Sorex.
Advanced Usage
- In taxonomic hierarchy: The term is used in scientific contexts to specify a precise level of biological classification. For example: "The family Soricidae is divided into several subfamilies, with genus Sorex being the most speciose in the subfamily Soricinae."
Variants and Related Words
- Sorex (n): The standardized, italicized form used in binomial nomenclature (e.g., , the cinereus shrew). This is the same as the genus name.
- Soricid (n): A member of the family Soricidae; a shrew.
- Shrew (n): The common name for small mammals in the family Soricidae, which includes .
Synonyms
- Shrew genus (informal, non-scientific)
Notes on Meaning
- This term has a single, precise meaning in scientific (zoological/taxonomic) English. It does not have idiomatic or figurative uses. It refers specifically to the taxonomic grouping, not to individual animals (which are called "shrews" or species of ).
Noun
- type genus of the family Soricidae: shrews