Definition

Noun: 1. A taxonomic genus of birds: Genus Phalacrocorax is the type genus for the family Phalacrocoracidae. This means it is the genus that defines and gives its name to the entire family, which consists of birds commonly known as cormorants and shags.

Usage Notes

• This term is used exclusively in scientific and zoological contexts, specifically in biological classification (taxonomy).
• It is always capitalized and italicized ( or simply ) when written in formal scientific texts, following the convention for genus names.
• It refers to the collective group of species within this genus, not to an individual bird.

Examples of Usage

• In a scientific description:
  • The study focused on the diving behavior of several species within Genus Phalacrocorax.
  • The great cormorant, Phalacrocorax carbo, is the most widespread member of the genus.
• In a taxonomic discussion:
  • Genus Phalacrocorax is characterized by its hook-tipped bill and webbed feet.

Advanced Usage

• Phylogenetics: The term is used when discussing the evolutionary relationships between different cormorant species.
  • Genetic analysis confirmed the placement of the flightless cormorant within Genus Phalacrocorax.

Variants and Related Words

• Phalacrocorax (n): The abbreviated, standard form of the genus name used in binomial nomenclature (e.g., for the double-crested cormorant).
• Phalacrocoracidae (n): The family name for all cormorants and shags, of which is the type genus.
• Cormorant (n): The common English name for most birds in this genus.
• Shag (n): A common name for certain species within , often distinguished from cormorants by smaller size and crests.

Synonyms

• Cormorant genus: A non-scientific, descriptive synonym.
• (There are no direct single-word synonyms in scientific nomenclature, as genus names are unique identifiers.)

Related Phrases

• Type genus: A taxonomic rank. is the type genus for its family.
• Binomial name: The two-part scientific name of a species, which includes the genus name. For example, in , "" is the genus.

Noun

1. type genus: coextensive with the family Phalacrocoracidae