cryptic species

American  

[krip-tik spee-sheez] / ˈkrɪp tɪk ˈspi ʃiz /

noun

1. a species that is genetically distinct from one or more other species but morphologically identical.

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Example Sentences

Many are what scientists call cryptic species, meaning they are visually almost impossible to tell apart.

From Science Daily

"It's often only possible to distinguish between cryptic species using DNA, which can be slow, invasive, and costly," explained Jewell.

From Science Daily

Bond had long suspected the presence of cryptic species, a term for species that appear similar but are genetically distinct.

From Science Daily

Cryptic species are reproductively isolated.

From Science Daily

"Cryptic species, like most snakes, are problematic when introduced outside of their range, as detectability is low, even in high densities. With this new method, we increase our ability to detect these cryptic species tremendously, no matter how many there are," said Sergio Balaguera-Reina, co-author and research assistant scientist at the UF/IFAS FLREC.

From Science Daily