What is the Greek derivation explaining the genus name *Ictalurus*?
Answer
Fish-cat
The naming conventions used in Linnaean taxonomy often reflect observable physical traits or habitat characteristics of the organism being described. The genus name *Ictalurus*, frequently associated with the White Catfish in older or widespread literature, has specific roots in the Greek language. This term is a compound descriptive name literally translating to 'fish-cat.' This nomenclature is highly descriptive because it directly refers to the prominent barbels located around the fish's mouth. These sensory appendages strongly resemble the whiskers found on a feline, or cat, thus providing a visually intuitive name for the fish group based on this striking morphological feature.
Related Questions
What morphological features identify the Order Siluriformes, to which the White Catfish belongs?What association defines the Family Ictaluridae, which includes the White Catfish?What scientific binomial results from the taxonomic revision placing the White Catfish in the genus *Ameiurus*?How does the White Catfish's typically forked tail compare morphologically to that of bullheads?What is the Greek derivation explaining the genus name *Ictalurus*?Which Class classification groups the White Catfish with ray-finned fishes?How does the White Catfish's utilization of benthic resources subtly differ from the Channel Catfish's habitat preference?What specific conservation listing is noted for the White Catfish in New York State Wildlife Action Plans (SWAPs)?What defining structural feature necessitates placement in Phylum Chordata for the White Catfish?How many barbels does the White Catfish possess around its mouth, characteristic of its family?