What is the Latin meaning associated with the specific epithet obsoletus?
Answer
Worn out or obsolete
The specific epithet *obsoletus*, which forms the second part of the binomial nomenclature *Pantherophis obsoletus*, originates from Latin. The derived meaning translates directly to 'worn out' or 'obsolete'. In the context of historical taxonomy, the reasoning for selecting such a term can be ambiguous, but it often relates to a physical characteristic observed on the initial specimen used for formal description. This might refer to a pattern or marking that tends to fade or become less distinct as the snake ages or matures, or perhaps the condition of the preserved specimen presented to the describing naturalist.
Related Questions
What Class defines Pantherophis obsoletus by possessing scales and being ectothermic?The Western Rat Snake is a member of which large snake Family?Before genetic analysis refined taxonomy, P. obsoletus and relatives were often grouped under which genus?What defines members of the reptile Order Squamata regarding body covering?What is the Latin meaning associated with the specific epithet obsoletus?What Global Rank (G5) has NatureServe assigned to Pantherophis obsoletus?What imprecise term is sometimes used to refer to snakes in the Family Colubridae?What structural feature distinguishes the Phylum Chordata, which includes Pantherophis obsoletus?Which synonym reflects the original description designation placing the snake under Coluber?The genus Pantherophis signifies a lineage separate from which Eurasian counterparts?Which two species, now classified separately within Pantherophis, were once included in the broader Elaphe obsoleta complex?