Some Names and their Meanings

The Latin binomial differs from the old polynomial in the way a short description is often encapsulated in a single word. 'Cauda elongata', for example, becomes 'longicaudata'. This is like using 'longtailed' instead of 'with a long tail': it makes an adjective out of a phrase. 'Fissirostris' is an adjective meaning 'split-beaked', replacing 'fisso rostro'.
 
Working out what the names mean can be tough, hence the list that follows is limited to some easy ones.
 
Aphrophora alni: spittle bug
'Froth-bearer (genus) of alder (species)'
 
Apis mellifera: honey bee
'Honey-bearing (species) bee (genus)'
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