lanata

Lanata is a Latin descriptive term used in biological nomenclature to indicate a woolly or densely hairy appearance. It functions as an adjective and is written in the feminine form lanata to agree with a feminine genus name, while masculine lanatus and neuter lanatum are used to match other gendered genus names. The root lana means wool, reflecting the texture or appearance the epithet is meant to describe.

In botanical names, lanata commonly describes surfaces such as leaves, stems, or fruits that are covered with soft, woolly hairs. This hairiness can affect texture, color, and how a plant is identified or differentiated from related species. In zoological contexts, lanata can describe fur, setae, or other coverings of animals, indicating a woolly or fuzzy coat. In mycology, lichenology, and other groups, the term may similarly describe a woolly or felt-like surface on a fungal sporocarp, thallus, or related structures.

Lanata is not a taxon itself but a descriptive epithet that appears across numerous genera and species. Because it is a descriptive term, its exact meaning can vary with the organism and the context, but it consistently conveys the notion of hairiness or woolliness. The use of lanata follows the conventions of Latin grammar and the nomenclature codes that govern scientific naming, ensuring gender agreement between the epithet and the genus.