What Latin word inspired the genus name Sus assigned to the wild boar?
Answer
Pig
The binomial designation *Sus scrofa* is derived directly from Latin roots used to formalize biological naming conventions. Specifically, the genus name, *Sus*, originates from the Latin word meaning 'pig.' This assignment establishes the broad group to which the species belongs within the Linnaean system. The species epithet, *scrofa*, is distinct, derived from the Latin term meaning 'sow' or 'female pig.' The combination, assigned by Linnaeus in 1758, serves as the universally constant reference point for this species across all languages and scientific disciplines, unlike vernacular names which vary widely (e.g., *Sanglier* in French or *Jabalí* in Spanish).
Related Questions
Which taxonomic Order firmly places Sus scrofa alongside deer, cattle, and hippos?What Latin word inspired the genus name Sus assigned to the wild boar?What specific subspecies designation is sometimes used for the domestic pig by certain taxonomic viewpoints?What is the IUCN Red List designation for the species Sus scrofa globally?What distinguishing feature characterizes the Indian subspecies group (S. s. davidi and S. s. cristatus)?Which scientist formally assigned the name Sus scrofa in 1758?What specific subphylum level does NatureServe note for the Phylum Chordata of Sus scrofa?What general description defines the animals belonging to the Order Artiodactyla?In areas like the southeastern United States, how are feral swine resulting from S. scrofa lineage managed?What does the Latin term scrofa, the species epithet for the wild boar, specifically mean?