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.

---

Example Sentences

Because of this, Chan noted that some of the growing number of proposed cryptic species could result from how scientists analyze the data rather than reflecting clear biological divisions.

From Science Daily • Mar. 9, 2026

As Chan explained, "a ton of cryptic species are being discovered left and right."

From Science Daily • Mar. 9, 2026

These overlooked organisms, known as "cryptic" species, appear almost identical to known species but are genetically distinct.

From Science Daily • Mar. 3, 2026

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

From Science Daily • Jan. 29, 2026

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

From Science Daily • Jan. 29, 2026