subspecific

American  

[suhb-spuh-sif-ik] / ˌsʌb spəˈsɪf ɪk /

adjective

1. of, relating to, or of the nature of a subspecies.

2. less than specific.

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Other Word Forms

• subspecifically
  adverb

Etymology

Origin of subspecific

First recorded in 1865–70; sub- + specific

Example Sentences

Also, be it remembered, degree of difference, and not presence or absence of intergradation, was the basis on which subspecific versus specific rank was accorded to a named kind of animal.

From Comments on the Taxonomy and Geographic Distribution of Some North American Marsupials, Insectivores and Carnivores by Hall, E. Raymond (Eugene Raymond)

In this area of rapid change in size it is difficult to draw subspecific boundaries between pacificus, yaquinae, and bairdi, and this must be done somewhat arbitrarily.

From Speciation of the Wandering Shrew by Findley, James S.

Taken together, the above evidence indicates subspecific status for the northern, Mexican, animal and we conclude that it should stand as Cyclopes tridactylus mexicanus Hollister.

From The Subspecific Status of Two Central American Sloths by Hall, E. Raymond (Eugene Raymond)

These differences seem to be microgeographic and not of subspecific rank.

From Speciation and Evolution of the Pygmy Mice, Genus Baiomys by Packard, Robert L.

This, however has a wide range and, presenting more or less climatic variation in color, is recognized under several subspecific names.

From Color Key to North American Birds with bibiographical appendix by Chapman, Frank M.