Monotypic
Monotypic
Monotypic (pronunciation: /ˌmɒnəʊˈtɪpɪk/) is a term used in various fields of biology to describe a taxonomic group (taxon) that contains only one immediately subordinate taxon. This term is often used in the context of species, but can also refer to higher ranks in taxonomy, such as genera, families, orders, and so on.
Etymology
The term "monotypic" is derived from the Greek words "mono" meaning "one" and "typic" meaning "type". It was first used in the context of biology in the 19th century.
Related Terms
- Taxonomy: The science of classification, in biology the arrangement of organisms into a classification.
- Species: The lowest and most strict level of biological classification.
- Genus: A rank in the biological classification (taxonomy) that groups together closely related species.
- Family (biology): A higher rank in the biological classification (taxonomy) above the level of genus.
- Order (biology): A higher rank in the biological classification (taxonomy) above the level of family.
Usage in Biology
In biology, a monotypic taxon is a group that contains only one immediately subordinate taxon. For example, a genus that contains a single species is said to be monotypic. Similarly, a family that contains a single genus is also monotypic. The term can be applied to ranks higher than species, such as genera, families, and orders.
It's important to note that a monotypic taxon does not necessarily mean that there is only one individual organism within that group. Rather, it means that there is only one taxonomic group immediately subordinate to it.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Monotypic
- Wikipedia's article - Monotypic
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