unipuncta

Unipuncta is a term encountered in biological nomenclature, primarily as a descriptive epithet rather than as the name of a distinct taxon. The word is derived from Latin, combining uni- meaning "one" and puncta meaning "points" or "spots." In practice, unipuncta is used to describe a single conspicuous mark on an organism, such as a solitary wing spot in a moth or a solitary spot-like feature on a plant or insect.

In zoological and botanical naming, adjectives and participial epithets like unipuncta are chosen to reflect a notable characteristic of the specimen. The exact meaning can vary with the organism and the original authorship of the name. As a result, unipuncta does not correspond to a universally recognized genus or higher-rank taxon in modern, widely accepted classifications.

If unipuncta appears in taxonomic literature, it is more commonly found as part of a species name within a broader genus (for example, X unipuncta) rather than as a standalone genus. In some older or revised classifications, names containing unipuncta may have been reinterpreted, synonymized, or moved to other genera, reflecting changes in taxonomic understanding.

See also: Latin in taxonomic names; species epithet; taxonomic nomenclature.