Superfamily (Noun)
Meaning
(biology) a taxonomic group ranking below an order but above a family.
Classification
Nouns denoting groupings of people or objects.
Examples
- The lemur is part of the superfamily Lemuroidea, which is composed of several different families of lemurs and lorises.
- Biologists often use DNA sequencing to study the evolutionary relationships within a superfamily.
- Insects of the superfamily Chrysidoidea, also known as chrysidid wasps, are generally recognized by their shiny bodies and slender wings.
- Taxonomists disagree on the exact composition of the superfamily Dasyuromorphia, but it generally includes carnivorous marsupials like quolls and Tasmanian devils.
- Several recent studies have examined the systematics and biogeography of the large and diverse superfamily Pseudomonooidea.