Subclass

Subclass is a term used in taxonomy, the science of classifying organisms, to denote a rank or level within the hierarchical structure of classification. It is a rank below class and above order.

Definition

In biological classification, a subclass is a taxonomic rank that is secondary to class. In other words, it is a subdivision of a class. The subclass rank is used in both the botanical and zoological codes of nomenclature.

Usage

The usage of the subclass rank varies among different taxonomic schemes. In some schemes, it is a major rank, while in others it is not used at all. For example, in the International Code of Nomenclature for algae, fungi, and plants, the subclass rank is not used. However, in the International Code of Zoological Nomenclature, the subclass rank is used and is considered a major rank.

Examples

Examples of subclasses include:

• In the class Mammalia, the subclasses are Prototheria, Metatheria, and Eutheria.
• In the class Insecta, the subclasses are Apterygota and Pterygota.

See also

• Taxonomy (biology)
• Class (biology)
• Order (biology)

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