When it comes to pronouncing scientific names, it’s not uncommon to stumble over the unfamiliar combinations of letters and sounds. However, with a little guidance, you’ll be able to confidently utter “Myotis septentrionalis,” the scientific name for the Northern long-eared bat. In this guide, we’ll explore both formal and informal ways to pronounce this name and provide tips and examples to help you along the way.
Table of Contents
Formal Pronunciation
The formal pronunciation of “Myotis septentrionalis” adheres closely to the rules of Latin pronunciation. Below is a breakdown of the pronunciation of each element:
Myotis
The first part of the name, “Myotis,” is pronounced as “mai-OH-tis.” To help you remember this, think of “mai” as in “mice” and “OH” as in “oh my!”
Septentrionalis
The second part, “Septentrionalis,” is a bit trickier. It is pronounced as “sep-ten-tree-OH-na-lis.” Here’s a breakdown of the syllables:
- “Sep” sounds like “step” without the “t.”
- “Ten” is pronounced like the number “ten.”
- “Tree” sounds like the word “tree.”
- “OH” is pronounced as in “oh my!”
- “Na” sounds like the word “nah.”
- “Lis” sounds like the beginning of “list.”
Putting it all together, the formal pronunciation of “Myotis septentrionalis” is “mai-OH-tis sep-ten-tree-OH-na-lis.”
Informal Pronunciation
When it comes to informal pronunciation, scientific names are often adapted to fit the rules and sounds of everyday language. In informal settings, you might hear “Myotis septentrionalis” pronounced as “my-OH-tis sep-ten-tree-ON-uh-lis.” The main differences are the emphasis on different syllables and the shorter “uh” sound instead of “OH.”
Tips for Pronouncing Scientific Names
Break It Down
If you encounter a long scientific name, break it down into smaller, manageable parts. Identify the syllables and practice pronouncing them individually before putting them together.
Consult Pronunciation Guides
Many scientific resources, such as field guides or online databases, often include pronunciation guides for common species. These guides can be invaluable references for correctly pronouncing scientific names.
Listen to Experts
If you have the opportunity, attend lectures or workshops conducted by experts in the field. Hearing scientific names spoken by professionals can greatly enhance your understanding and pronunciation.
Examples
Researcher: Look, we found a Myotis septentrionalis in the forest!
Visitor: Oh, a Northern long-eared bat! Fascinating!
As you can see from the example above, even when informal pronunciation is used, understanding and clear communication still occur. The goal is to convey the name accurately and ensure everyone understands the species being discussed.
Regional Variations
While this guide focuses on standard pronunciations, it’s worth noting that regional variations may exist. Don’t feel discouraged if you encounter different pronunciations within specific geographical regions or specific scientific communities. The most important aspect is to convey the name intelligibly and create understanding, regardless of the variations that might exist.
By following these guidelines and practicing the formal and informal pronunciations, you’ll be able to confidently say “Myotis septentrionalis” in a variety of settings. Remember, scientific names are tools that help us communicate and understand the diverse world around us, so embrace the learning process with enthusiasm and curiosity!
