Genus
Genus
Genus (/ˈdʒiː.nəs/; plural genera) is a rank in the biological classification (taxonomy) system known as Linnaean taxonomy. It is positioned above species and below family in this hierarchical system. The term "genus" is derived from the Latin word genus ("descent, family, type, gender"), a noun form deriving from the Greek verb γίγνομαι gígnomai ("to become, to be born").
Definition
A genus is a class of items that have common characteristics and can be divided further into species. In biology, it is used to group species with similar characteristics. The genus name is always capitalized and italicized, and is used as the first part of the binomial species name.
Usage in Biology
In the Linnaean system, the genus is used as a means of grouping species. This system of classification is hierarchical and allows for a clear and broad overview of life's diversity. For example, the genus Panthera includes species like the lion (Panthera leo), tiger (Panthera tigris), and leopard (Panthera pardus).
Related Terms
- Species: The rank below genus in the Linnaean system. A species is often defined as the largest group of organisms in which any two individuals of the appropriate sexes or mating types can produce fertile offspring.
- Family (biology): The rank above genus in the Linnaean system. A family contains one or more genera.
- Taxonomy (biology): The science of defining and naming groups of biological organisms on the basis of shared characteristics.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Genus
- Wikipedia's article - Genus
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