What is a specific species claim in patent applications?

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Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based) BlueIron Update: 2024-09-27 10 Rules 5 Related FAQs This page is an FAQ based on guidance from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure. It is provided as guidance, with links to the ground truth sources. This is information only: it is not legal advice. A specific species claim in a patent application refers to a claim that is limited to a single disclosed embodiment of the invention. The MPEP 806.04(e) states: “The scope of a claim may be limited to a single disclosed embodiment (i.e., a single species, and thus be designated a specific species claim).” This means that a specific species claim narrowly defines the invention to cover only one particular version or implementation of the invention, as opposed to a broader claim that might cover multiple variations or embodiments. Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Claim May Encompass Multiple Embodiments MPEP 806.04(e) Permitted Claims May Limit to Single Embodiment MPEP 806.04(e) Permitted Claims Are Not Species MPEP 806.04(e) Allowable Claim Must Cover Reasonable Number of Species MPEP 806 Species Must Be Disclosed as Independent or Related MPEP 806.04(e) Permitted Claims Must Define Inventions MPEP 806.04(e) Requirement for Non-Distinct Inventions Not to Be Restricted MPEP 806 Prohibited Requirement for Distinct Inventions MPEP 806 Invention Distinctness Requirement MPEP 806 Permitted Restriction to One Independent Invention Is Proper MPEP 806 Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse What is the difference between claims and species in patent law? What are embodiments in patent law and how do they relate to species? How do generic or genus claims differ from specific species claims? Can species be independent or related in patent applications? How are species claims different from generic claims in patents?