Definition

Noun: 1. A taxonomic genus of amphibians: This is the scientific name for a specific genus of frogs. The genus Scaphiopus belongs to the family Scaphiopodidae and is commonly known as the New World spadefoot toads. Members of this genus are characterized by a distinctive, hardened spade-like projection on each hind foot, used for digging.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The biologist is studying the evolutionary history of genus Scaphiopus.
  • Several species within genus Scaphiopus have adapted to arid environments.

Advanced Usage

• In taxonomic hierarchy: The term is used in formal biological classification to group closely related species. It is written in italics, with the genus name capitalized.
  • The species was reclassified from Spea to Scaphiopus based on new genetic evidence.

Variants and Related Words

• Scaphiopus (n): The standard, non-italicized form used in common scientific discourse to refer to the genus.
  • The life cycle of Scaphiopus is tied to seasonal rains.
• Scaphiopodidae (n): The family name that includes the genus .
• Spadefoot toad (n): The common name for amphibians in this genus and related genera.

Synonyms

• New World spadefoot toads: The common name for the group of toads belonging to this genus.

Notes on Meaning

• This term has a single, precise meaning in scientific (zoological) context. It does not have idiomatic or phrasal verb uses. Its usage is almost exclusively technical and academic.

Noun

1. New World spadefoot toads