latipes

Latipes is a Latin species epithet used in the scientific names of numerous organisms across different biological groups. It is not a standalone taxon but a descriptive modifier appended to a genus name in binomial nomenclature.

Etymology and meaning: Latipes derives from Latin roots meaning “broad” or “wide” (latus) and “foot” (pes), yielding a meaning along the lines of “broad-footed.” In zoological and botanical naming, such adjectives describe a notable morphological trait of the species and must agree in gender with the genus when Latin grammar is applied.

Usage and scope: The epithet latipes appears in many unrelated genera and species, spanning insects, amphibians, reptiles, mollusks, and other groups. Because it describes a physical characteristic rather than a shared lineage, latipes has arisen independently in multiple, separate lineages. As with other epithets, the exact diagnostic significance is established in each species’ original description and any subsequent taxonomic work.

Examples and notes: Specific species bearing this epithet refer to individuals with comparatively broad feet, toes, or analogous structures as noted by the author describing the species. Taxonomic validity can change over time due to revisions, synonymization, or reclassification. For current, accurate information on a given latipes name, consult up-to-date taxonomic databases such as the Catalogue of Life or the Global Biodiversity Information Facility.