Definition

Noun: 1. A taxonomic genus containing the Arctic fox: "Genus Alopex" is the scientific name for a genus in the family Canidae. This genus is monotypic, meaning it contains only one widely recognized extant species, Alopex lagopus, commonly known as the Arctic fox.

Usage Notes

• "Genus Alopex" is a formal, scientific term used primarily in biological and zoological contexts. It is not used in everyday conversation.
• In scientific writing, the genus name is always italicized. When used alone, "Alopex" can also refer to this genus.
• This term classifies the organism within the hierarchical system of biological classification (taxonomy).

Examples

• Scientific Context:
  • The study focused on the evolutionary history of genus Alopex.
  • Genus Alopex is adapted to extremely cold environments.
  • The Arctic fox, Alopex lagopus, is the sole member of genus Alopex.

Advanced Usage

• Taxonomic Discussion: The classification of the Arctic fox has been debated. Some taxonomic authorities now place it within the genus . Therefore, you may encounter references to . In contexts where the older classification is used or specified, "genus Alopex" remains correct.
  • While traditionally placed in genus Alopex, recent genetic studies suggest inclusion in genus Vulpes.

Variants and Related Words

• Alopex (n): The abbreviated form of the genus name.
  • Alopex lagopus has a circumpolar distribution.
• Alopex lagopus (n): The full binomial name (genus and species) for the Arctic fox.
• Arctic fox (n): The common name for the animal classified under this genus.
• Canidae (n): The biological family that includes this genus, along with dogs, wolves, and other foxes.

Synonyms

• (There are no direct synonyms for this precise taxonomic term. The closest approximations refer to the animal itself, not the classification level.)
• Arctic fox genus: A descriptive, non-scientific term.

Related Terms (Not Phrasal Verbs or Idioms)

• Monotypic genus: A genus containing only one recognized species.
• Taxonomy: The science of classification.
• Lagomorph (Note: This is unrelated; it is the order containing rabbits and hares. It is included here to highlight a common point of confusion due to the similarity in sound to the species epithet "").

Noun

1. arctic foxes