Introduction to Classification

Taxonomy: The functional science that deals with the identification classification and nomenclature of living things is called taxonomy.

Classification: The systematic arrangements of living things into different groups based on their closely related characters are called classification.

Nomenclature: the process of giving scientific names to the living beings is called nomenclature.

Binomial system of nomenclature: The process of giving scientific names to the living beings by using two Greek words which are for genus and species is called binomial system of nomenclature.

Genus: The group of closely related species is called genus.

Species: The groups of organisms that are morphologically identical and sexually isolated are called species.

Rules for writing scientific names:

1. The initial letter of the generic name of an organism should be written in capital letter.
2. The specific name should be written in small letters.
3. The scientific names should be underlined separately when writing on paper and should be italicized while typing.

   E.g. Homo sapiens (Electronic) Homo sapiens (when handwritten)

   Common name	Generic name	Specific name
   Man	Homo	sapiens
   Cat	Felis	catus
   Mustard	Brassica	juncea
   Pea	Pisum	sativum
   Maize	Zea	mays

Significance of Binomial nomenclature

1. The binomial name of the organism is universal through the world. A single species has different common name all over the world but scientific name helps that species to individualize.
2. The nomenclature shows evolutionary relationship among various species of the same genus
3. It shows the relationship between different varieties of the genus.
4. Scientific names are based on characters and classification. So, binomial nomenclature makes the study of organism scientific and practical.
5. Scientific name can be changed if necessary.

Importance of classification

1. It provides support in favor of evolution.
2. It takes a short period for the better understanding of organism.
3. It suggests our ways of giving scientific names to the organisms.
4. It provides us information regarding the natural relationship of organisms.
5. It solves the problem of putting the organisms in their proper position.