Etymology of Scientific Names of Animals
This table provides insights into the origins and meanings behind their scientific names:
| Common Name | Scientific Name | Etymology of Name |
|---|---|---|
| Lion | Panthera leo | “Panthera” is Greek for “panther,” while “leo” is Latin for “lion.” Together, they denote “lion panther.” |
| Giraffe | Giraffa camelopardalis | “Giraffa” comes from Arabic “zarāfah,” meaning “fast walker.” “Camelopardalis” is Latin for “camel leopard,” referring to its camel-like shape and leopard-like spots. |
| Elephant | Loxodonta africana | “Loxodonta” comes from Greek “loxós,” meaning “oblique-sided,” and “odónt,” meaning “tooth,” referring to the elephant’s sloped teeth. “Africana” denotes its African origin. |
| Kangaroo | Macropus rufus | “Macropus” is derived from Greek “makrós,” meaning “long,” and “poús,” meaning “foot,” referring to the animal’s long feet. “Rufus” is Latin for “red,” describing its coat color. |
| Platypus | Ornithorhynchus anatinus | “Ornithorhynchus” combines Greek “ornitho,” meaning “bird,” and “rhynchus,” meaning “snout,” referring to its duck-bill. “Anatinus” is Latin for “duck-like.” |
Check: Photosynthesis
Binomial Nomenclature is a formal way to name species, using two names usually derived from Latin, though they can come from other languages too. This two-part name, also known as a scientific name, highlights the genus and species of an organism. The first part tells us the genus, and the second part specifies the exact species.
In Binomial Nomenclature, there are specific rules to follow. The generic name is always capitalized, while the specific name is not. Additionally, the entire name should be italicized.
Scientific Names of Animals and Birds
Scientific Names of Animals and Birds are more than just a string of Latin words. These scientific names serve as global languages, transcending linguistic barriers, and allowing scientists and enthusiasts worldwide to identify and study creatures accurately. Besides this, these Scientific Names of Animals and Birds are also important to understanding Animals and Birds and providing information about their family tree. In this article, we will look into the Common Animals and Birds Names with Their Scientific Names.
Table of Content
- List of Scientific Names of Some Common Animals
- Scientific Names of Birds
- Taxonomic Classification of Selected Animals
- Scientific Names of Extinct Organisms
- Etymology of Scientific Names of Animals
- Interesting Facts of Some Common Animals