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Glite Dictionary
genus Cercocebus

genus Cercocebus

9.9
A group of African monkeys called mangabeys
  • noun
  • Specialized
: género Cercocebus
  • The genus Cercocebus includes several species of mangabeys found in African forests.

Examples

  • Scientists have studied the behavior of monkeys in the genus Cercocebus to understand primate social structures.

  • The genus Cercocebus includes several species of mangabeys.

  • Unlike some other primates, the genus Cercocebus is distinguished by their strong jaws and cheek pouches.

  • Did you know that genus Cercocebus is native to Africa?

  • Researchers have documented the unique vocalizations of monkeys in the genus Cercocebus, providing insights into their communication methods.

  • The genus Cercocebus is well-known for its diverse adaptations to various habitats across Africa.

  • Conservationists are working to protect the genus Cercocebus, as many of its species are threatened by habitat loss.

Synonyms

Cercocebus
vsgenus Cercocebus
  • Specialized
1 9.9

A type of monkey that lives in central African forests

is broader, referring to the same genus native across Africa

Surface Forms

genus Cercocebus singular
genera Cercocebus plural

Morphology

genus + Cercocebus

This phrase is fully compositional: 'genus' names a biological rank and 'Cercocebus' is the proper name of that genus, so a learner who knows both constituents can infer it refers to the taxonomic group of mangabeys. Taxonomic name+rank constructions are cross-linguistically regular and follow straightforward composition, making the meaning transparent to B1 learners who know the parts.

Etymology

The scientific name genus Cercocebus may come from old Greek words kerkos and kebos, meaning 'tail' and 'monkey'. Early naturalists chose this name because these mangabeys have a noticeable tail, so the name points to this group of African monkeys.