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genus Sphyraena

genus Sphyraena

9.9
A group of large marine fish with long bodies called barracudas
  • noun
  • /ˈdʒɛnəs ˌsfɪˈreɪnə/
  • Specialized
translation icon : género Sphyraena
  • The genus Sphyraena includes several species of large, predatory marine fish known as barracudas.

Examples

  • Researchers discovered a new species within the genus Sphyraena in the Indo-Pacific region.

  • The genus Sphyraena includes various species of barracuda.

  • All members of the genus Sphyraena are characterized by their elongated bodies and fearsome teeth.

  • Did you know that the genus Sphyraena is known for its speed?

  • The genus Sphyraena encompasses fast and aggressive fish commonly referred to as barracudas.

  • Researchers identified two new species in the genus Sphyraena that inhabit coral reefs.

  • Fish from the genus Sphyraena are famous for their sharp teeth and elongated bodies.

Synonyms

Sphyraena
vsgenus Sphyraena
  • Specialized
9.9

A long, fast saltwater fish that eats other fish, commonly called a barracuda

is the same name but written with a rank label before it

Surface Forms

genus Sphyraena singular
genera Sphyraena plural

Morphology

genus + Sphyraena

This is a straightforward taxonomic noun phrase: combining 'genus' (a biological rank) with the proper name 'Sphyraena' yields the meaning 'the genus called Sphyraena (barracudas)'. The compositional pattern is standard in biology and cross-linguistically common, so a B1 learner who knows both constituents can derive the MWE meaning.

Etymology

Genus Sphyraena may come from an old Greek word for 'spear', because these fish have long, pointed bodies and very sharp teeth like a spear's tip. So the name was used for the group of fish we call 'barracudas' today.