Definition

Proper noun * A specific species of small heron: Ixobrychus exilis is the scientific (Latin) name for a specific bird species, commonly known as the least bittern. It is a small, secretive wading bird found in marshes.

Usage

• The term Ixobrychus exilis is used in formal, scientific, and academic contexts such as ornithology, biology, and conservation. It is not used in everyday conversation.
• It is always written in italics in scientific texts, with the genus name () capitalized and the species name () in lowercase.

Examples

• Scientific Context:
  • The study focused on the nesting habits of Ixobrychus exilis in the freshwater wetlands.
  • Researchers confirmed the presence of Ixobrychus exilis through its distinctive call.

Advanced Usage

• Taxonomic Classification: The name is part of a binomial nomenclature system. is the genus (a group of related small bitterns), and is the specific epithet meaning "slender" or "small," describing the species.

Variants and Related Words

• Common Name: Least bittern. This is the standard English name used by birdwatchers and in general communication.
  • We spotted a least bittern in the reeds.
• Genus Name: . This refers to the genus which includes other small bittern species.
• Family: Ardeidae. This is the biological family that includes all herons, egrets, and bitterns.

Synonyms

• Least bittern: The direct and only common English synonym for the scientific name .

Different Meanings

• This term has only one meaning: it refers exclusively to the specific bird species known as the least bittern. It is a proper scientific name.

Noun

1. small American bittern