Subspecies - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
A subspecies is a distinct group within a species, differing slightly in traits like appearance or habitat but still capable of interbreeding. It represents a finer classification in biology.
Definition:
A taxonomic category ranking below species, representing populations with distinct characteristics.
Synonyms:
variety, race, strain, type
Part of Speech:
noun
Antonyms:
species, genus
Common Collocations:
distinct subspecies, endangered subspecies, classify subspecies
Derivatives:
subspecific, subspeciation
Usage Tips:
Use "subspecies" to describe variations within a species, often in scientific or biological contexts.
Common Phrases:
subspecies of tiger, rare subspecies, native subspecies
Etymology:
From Latin "sub-" (under) + "species" (kind), meaning a secondary or lesser kind within a species.
Examples:
- 1. The biologist identified a new subspecies of butterfly in the rainforest.
- 2. This rare subspecies of wolf is only found in northern regions.
- 3. The two bird subspecies differ slightly in plumage color and song patterns.
- 4. Conservation efforts focus on protecting endangered subspecies from habitat loss.