Acclarata

Acclarata is a Latin-derived term encountered in biological nomenclature as a species epithet rather than the name of a distinct genus. It does not designate a standalone taxon, but rather appears within binomial names across multiple genera to form a species designation.

Etymology and form: The epithet derives from Latin acclaratus, meaning made clear or bright. The feminine form acclarata agrees with the gender of the genus it accompanies. In botanical and zoological naming, such adjectival epithets are chosen to reflect a perceived trait or quality of the species.

Taxonomic usage: Acclarata has appeared as a specific epithet in various taxa described by different authors. Because it is a descriptive Latin adjective, its appearance in multiple, unrelated genera does not imply close relatedness among those species. The trait implied by acclarata is not uniformly defined across taxa; it may relate to coloration, markings, or an impression of distinction noted by the describer.

Identification and references: To determine the exact taxonomic identity of a species bearing the epithet acclarata, the full binomial name and primary taxonomic references must be consulted. Researchers often use taxonomic databases such as IPNI, ITIS, or WoRMS, along with the original species description, to confirm genus placement and any subsequent revisions.

See also: Latin in taxonomy, species epithet, taxonomic nomenclature.