What is the formal binomial nomenclature identifying the Pacific wolf eel?
Answer
Anarrhichthys ocellatus
The formal scientific designation used universally for the Pacific wolf eel is the binomial nomenclature Anarrhichthys ocellatus. This two-part name is crucial for ensuring unambiguous global scientific communication, differentiating the species from all others. The first part, Anarrhichthys, denotes the genus, grouping it with related species, while the second part, ocellatus, is the specific epithet, which potentially refers to visual markings on the fish’s skin, such as small, dark spots. Relying on this Latinized scientific name supersedes the use of the common name, "wolf eel," which can be misleading regarding its true evolutionary relatives.
Related Questions
What is the formal binomial nomenclature identifying the Pacific wolf eel?Which Order classification separates the wolf eel from true eels (Anguilliformes)?What dentition characteristic defines the Family Anarhichadidae, where wolf fishes belong?Which genus is *Anarrhichthys ocellatus* the sole recognized species within its lineage?What key feature defines the Class Actinopterygii classification for *A. ocellatus*?What does the specific epithet *ocellatus* in the scientific name likely refer to?What fin structure characteristic is explicitly attributed to true eels, unlike *A. ocellatus*?What biological indicator does the Phylum Chordata classification confirm for *A. ocellatus*?How does the fixed position of *A. ocellatus* in taxonomy guide ongoing scientific research?What common descriptor is sometimes used for fishes grouped within the Order Perciformes?