Biological classification

Biological classification (pronunciation: /baɪəˈlɒdʒɪkəl ˌklasɪfɪˈkeɪʃən/), also known as taxonomy (pronunciation: /tæksˈɒnəmi/), is the process by which scientists group living organisms. The term comes from the Greek words "bios" meaning life, and "klastos" meaning broken in pieces.

Biological classification is a method used by biologists to describe and categorize all forms of life. This system is based on similarities and differences in organisms' physical and genetic characteristics. The main purpose of biological classification is to organize the vast amount of known information about organisms in a way that makes it easier to understand their relationships to each other.

History

The concept of biological classification dates back to the time of Aristotle, who classified living organisms based on simple observable traits. However, the modern system of classification, known as the Linnaean system, was developed by the Swedish botanist Carl Linnaeus in the 18th century.

Levels of classification

The biological classification system has several hierarchical levels, each of which provides more specific information about the organism. These levels, from most general to most specific, are:

Each level of classification is referred to as a taxonomic rank. A complete classification of an organism will include information at each of these ranks.

Related terms

Binomial nomenclature: The system of naming species using two names, the genus and the species.
Taxon: A group of one or more populations of an organism or organisms seen by taxonomists to form a unit.
Phylogenetics: The study of the evolutionary history and relationships among individuals or groups of organisms.

Biological classification

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