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cloud species

n. Sub grouping of standard cloud classification system, coming after the major cloud genera

Wikipedia
Cloud species

Cloud species are a set of fourteen terms used to describe the shape and structure of clouds. Each one has its name abbreviated to a three letter term.

Species

Abbreviation

Description

Genera

Calvus

cal

Tops of clouds lose hard, rough appearance and become smooth

Cb

Capillatus

cap

Tops of clouds become distinctly fibrous or striated. Cirrus clouds are often in appearance

Cb

Castellanus

cas

Distinct turrets rising from a large base or line of cloud

Sc, Ac, Cc

Congestus

con

Great vertical height much larger than the base, shows vigorous growth with cauliflower like tops

Cu

Fibratus

fib

Fibrous appearance, with straight or uniform curves and no distinct hooks

Ci, Cs

Floccus

flo

Individual tufts of clouds with ragged bases and often with noticeable virga

Ac, Cc, Ci

Fractus

fra

Broken cloud with ragged bases and edges

Cu, St

Humilis

hum

Cloud with limited vertical height with a length much bigger than their height

Cu

Lenticularis

len

Lens or almond shaped clouds that are stationary in the sky

Sc, Ac, Cc

Mediocris

med

Clouds of moderate height that are around equal height and length, growing upwards

Cu

Nebulosus

neb

Featureless sheet of cloud with no structure

St, Cs

Spissatus

spi

Dense cloud appearing lighter shade of grey when viewed toward the sun

Ci

Stratiformis

str

Cloud in an extensive sheet or layer

Sc, Ac, Cc

Uncinus

unc

Distinctly hooked usually without a visible head

Ci