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Glite Dictionary
genus Cypraea

genus Cypraea

9.9
A group of sea snails called cowries that have smooth, shiny shells
  • noun
  • /ˈdʒɛnəs ˈsaɪpriə/
  • Specialized
translation icon : género Cypraea
  • The genus Cypraea includes some of the most beautiful cowry shells found in tropical oceans.

Examples

  • Researchers recently discovered a rare species within the genus Cypraea off the coast of Madagascar.

  • Collecting specimens of the genus Cypraea has long fascinated marine biologists and shell enthusiasts alike.

  • The genus Cypraea includes many beautiful shells.

  • Did you know that genus Cypraea has over 200 species?

  • Collecting specimens of the genus Cypraea has long fascinated marine biologists and shell enthusiasts alike.

  • Researchers recently discovered a rare species within the genus Cypraea off the coast of Madagascar.

  • The genus Cypraea includes some of the most beautiful cowry shells found in tropical oceans.

Synonyms

Cypraea
vsgenus Cypraea
  • Specialized
9.9

A group of sea snails with shiny, brightly patterned shells

is the formal type designation within the family for the same group

Surface Forms

genus Cypraea singular
genera Cypraea plural

Morphology

genus + Cypraea

The phrase is directly compositional: 'genus' (a biological rank) combined with the taxon name 'Cypraea' denotes the taxonomic group containing those molluscs. This follows standard, cross-linguistic scientific naming patterns, so a B1 learner who knows both constituents can readily infer the meaning.

Etymology

Genus Cypraea gets its name from the word Cypraea, which may mean 'from Cyprus' because these shiny shells were once common there and were linked to the goddess of love. So today genus Cypraea is the scientific name for this group of 'cowries'.