What Greek words form the derivation for the genus name Micropterus?

"small fin"

The genus name *Micropterus* originates from Greek roots that translate to "small fin." This name is notably considered a slight misnomer because the characteristic giving rise to the name was observed on an injured type specimen during the initial classification process. Specifically, the posterior rays of the soft dorsal fin appeared separate on that specimen, leading to the description as having a 'small fin.' Understanding the etymology behind genus names is important as it often points to a historical observation, even if that observation later proved not to be universally accurate for all members of the group, as in this case where it stems from an injured fish.