Definition

Noun: 1. A taxonomic genus within the family Majidae: Genus Maja is the type genus for the spider crab family Majidae. This genus serves as the reference point for classifying other members within this family of crustaceans. Its members are characterized by their long legs and triangular carapace, resembling spiders. 2. Nearly cosmopolitan distribution: Species belonging to this genus are found in oceans worldwide, indicating a very broad, nearly global geographic range.

Usage Examples

• The marine biologist identified the specimen as a member of genus Maja due to its distinctive carapace shape.
• Genus Maja is crucial for taxonomic studies of spider crabs.
• Several species within genus Maja are common in coastal waters across different continents.

Advanced Usage

• In scientific literature, the genus name is always italicized: Maja. When used in a general sense, "genus Maja" is acceptable.
• The genus is often discussed in the context of carcinology (the study of crustaceans) and marine biodiversity.

Variants and Related Words

• Majidae (n): The family name to which genus belongs, commonly known as spider crabs or decorator crabs.
• Maja squinado (n): A well-known species within the genus, often called the European spider crab or spiny spider crab.
• Type genus (n): A taxonomic term for the genus that defines a family. is the type genus for Majidae.

Synonyms

• Genus Maia (n): An older, now less common spelling variant for the same genus. Modern taxonomy standardizes on .

Related Terms (Not Phrasal Verbs or Idioms)

• Taxonomy (n): The science of classification. Genus is a unit within biological taxonomy.
• Crustacean (n): The larger class of arthropods to which crabs, including members of genus , belong.
• Carapace (n): The hard upper shell of a crab. The shape of the carapace is a key identifying feature for genus .

Noun

1. type genus of the Majidae; nearly cosmopolitan in distribution