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Glite Dictionary
genus Steatornis

genus Steatornis

9.9
A group of birds with only the oilbird, a bird active at night in South America
  • noun
  • /ˈdʒɛnəs steɪˈætərnɪs/
  • Specialized
: género Steatornis
  • The genus Steatornis includes only the oilbird, a rare nocturnal species of South America.

Examples

  • Conservationists are concerned about habitat loss affecting birds in the genus Steatornis.

  • The genus Steatornis includes the unique oilbird.

  • Researchers have studied the unique echolocation abilities found within the genus Steatornis.

  • Did you know that the genus Steatornis is only found in South America?

  • The genus Steatornis is known for the oilbird, which is famous for its ability to navigate in the dark.

  • In the genus Steatornis, the oilbird exhibits fascinating traits, making it a subject of interest for avian biologists.

  • Birdwatchers often seek to observe species from the genus Steatornis, particularly the elusive oilbird in its natural habitat.

Synonyms

Steatornis
vsgenus Steatornis
  • Specialized
9.9

A group of birds that includes the oilbird

is the same concept but written as a descriptive phrase not the short name

Surface Forms

genus Steatornis singular
genera Steatornis plural

Morphology

genus + Steatornis

This is a straightforward taxonomic combination: 'genus' names the biological rank and 'Steatornis' is the proper name of the taxon. A B1 learner who knows both constituents can readily infer that it refers to the genus called Steatornis; the composition follows a regular, cross-linguistically common naming pattern and is therefore transparent.

Etymology

Genus Steatornis comes from the parts Steato- (meaning 'fat') and -ornis (meaning 'bird'). Scientists used this name because the oilbird eats oily fruit and has greasy feathers, so the name points to the 'group' that contains that species.