megalobatrachus maximus

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megalobatrachus maximus

A scientist carefully observes a Megalobatrachus maximus in a clear stream.

Definition

Proper noun * A specific species of salamander: Megalobatrachus maximus is the scientific name for a very large species of salamander native to Asia, historically also known as the Japanese giant salamander. It is noted for its considerable size and is considered edible.

Usage Notes
  • This term is a taxonomic binomial (genus + species) used in scientific and zoological contexts. It is typically written in italics, with the genus name capitalized.
  • While historically used, this specific scientific name has been largely superseded in modern taxonomy. The species is now more commonly referred to by its current accepted scientific name, , or by its common name, the Japanese giant salamander.
  • The reference to being "edible" is a factual characteristic noted in some descriptions but is not the primary defining feature of the term.
Examples
  • Scientific Context:
    • Early zoological texts described the Megalobatrachus maximus as one of the largest amphibians in the world.
    • The specimen was initially classified as Megalobatrachus maximus before being reclassified into the genus Andrias.
Advanced Usage
  • Taxonomic History: The term appears in historical literature and older classification systems. Its usage today is primarily in discussions about the history of herpetology or taxonomic revisions.
    • Example: The transition from the name Megalobatrachus maximus to Andrias japonicus reflects advancements in phylogenetic understanding.
Variants and Related Words
  • Andrias japonicus (n.): The current, widely accepted scientific name for the Japanese giant salamander.
  • Japanese giant salamander (n.): The common English name for this species.
  • Giant salamander (n.): A general term for large salamanders in the family Cryptobranchidae, which includes the Chinese giant salamander () and the Japanese species.
Synonyms
  • Japanese giant salamander (Common name)
  • Andrias japonicus (Current scientific synonym)
Related Terms
  • Cryptobranchidae (n.): The biological family to which this salamander belongs, encompassing all giant salamanders.
  • Amphibian (n.): The class of cold-blooded vertebrates that includes salamanders, frogs, and caecilians.
megalobatrachus maximus

A scientist carefully observes a Megalobatrachus maximus in a clear stream.

Noun
  1. large (up to more than three feet) edible salamander of Asia