type species

noun

, Biology.

1. the species of a genus that is regarded as the best example of the generic characters of the genus; the species from which a genus was originally named.

type species

1. See holotype

Word History and Origins

Origin of type species¹

First recorded in 1830–40

Example Sentences

The authors' molecular work on type species is a major contribution to mycology because it establishes an authoritative foundation for all future work on Psilocybe diversity in taxonomy.

From Science Daily

Of the last genus the type species B. hodgsoni belongs to Cape Colony, but the specimens described were born and bred and observed in Norway.

From Project Gutenberg

M. Bufo, the type species, is probably not now in gardens.

From Project Gutenberg

About 15 in. is the length of the type species.

From Project Gutenberg

Sequoia.—The two species of Sequoia should be raised from seed, and the three or four varieties be grafted on the type species.

From Project Gutenberg