type genus

noun

, Biology.

1. the genus that is formally held to be typical of the family or other higher group to which it belongs.

type genus

/ tīp /

1. The taxonomic genus that is designated as representative of the family to which it belongs. The type genus is usually the first genus in the family to be named, or the genus that is considered most important. Families are named after type genera. For example, the dinosaur Tyrannosaurus is the type genus for the family Tyrannosauridae.

Word History and Origins

Origin of type genus¹

First recorded in 1830–40

Example Sentences

San′talin, the colouring matter of red sandalwood; San′talum, the type genus of the sandalwood family.

From Project Gutenberg

The type-genus Cladonema (fig. 20) is a common British form.

From Project Gutenberg

The type genus Hippotragus has its horns placed above the orbits; they are not twisted, but curved backwards.

From Project Gutenberg

The type genus Xiphodon has selenodont molars and elongated, slender, cutting premolars.

From Project Gutenberg