Botanical Classification Flashcards

Botanical Classification Overview

• The binomial system provides a unique and universally recognized name for every species.
• Taxonomy involves the classification and naming of organisms.

Species Naming Structure

• A species name consists of two main parts: the genus and the specific epithet.
• Genus groups plants that are closely related and share characteristics.
• Specific epithet identifies a species within its genus.

Classification Groups

• Spermatophyta refers to seed plants.
• Plant families group related plants, commonly ending in the suffix "-aceae."
• Similar characteristics lead to plants being categorized within the same family.

Hierarchical Classification

• Subspecies offer finer classification details, differing in few characteristics like flower color.
• An example of subspecies is written as "Pinus sylvestris car.scotica," italicized with the subspecies name starting in lowercase.

Cultivars and Hybrids

• Cultivars are cultivated varieties selected by humans, such as "Cupressus macrocarpa 'Goldcrest'", written in quotation marks after the taxonomic name.
• Hybrids result from crossing two plants to create a new variety, exemplified by "Anemone x hybrida."

Reasons for Hybridization

• Hybridization aims to combine the best traits from different plants into a new one.

Importance of the Binomial System

• The binomial naming system reduces confusion caused by common names, ensuring clarity in identification.

Classification Goals

• Classification is essential for identifying plants, implying relationships, and summarizing common characteristics within groups.

Subdivision of Species

• Subspecies denote geographical races differing from the typical type, while varieties are smaller, often non-geographical groupings.

Authoritative Framework

• The binomial naming system was introduced by Linnaeus in 1753 with his work "Species Plantarum."
• Plant naming is governed by the International Code of Nomenclature (ICN) and the Code for cultivated plants (CP).

Advantages of Nomenclature

• Nomenclature offers unique, universal, and stable names specific to plant types, indicating relatedness and facilitating identification.

F1 Hybrids

• F1 hybrids represent the first filial generation, resulting from inbreeding parent plants to create stable lines, exhibiting hybrid vigor and uniform growth.