Taxonomy and Classification Overview

Study Notes

Taxonomy and Classification

Taxonomy is the study of classifying organisms
Carolus Linnaeus created the binomial nomenclature system in 1735 to consistently name organisms
His system uses two words: Genus and species
The first word is always capitalized and the second is lowercase.
Both words are italicized when written.
Example: Homo sapiens

The Seven Taxons of Classification

The seven classifications are Kingdom, Phylum, Class, Order, Family, Genus, and Species.
This system starts with the broadest category and narrows down to the most specific.
A mnemonic to remember the order is "King Phillip Came Over For Good Soup" or "Killing People Caused OJ's Funky Glove Stains."

Benefits of Classification

Provides a universal language for scientists
Ensures consistency in scientific naming
Improves clarity in distinguishing and grouping organisms
Helps to establish a hierarchical system, making it easier to study organisms

Dichotomous Keys

A dichotomous key provides steps for identifying organisms.
Each step offers two choices based on specific characteristics.
Users select the choice that best describes their organism, progressively narrowing options.
This process leads to the correct identification of the organism.

Rules for Using a Dichotomous Key

Always carefully read both choices, even if the first seems obvious.
Understand the meaning of the terms used in the key.
If measurements are provided, use a scale to measure the specimen accurately.
Living things are variable, so study multiple specimens to ensure your identification aligns with the typical characteristics of the species.
If a choice is unclear, try both options.
Once a potential answer is reached, confirm it by reviewing descriptions of the identified organism.

Key Ideas in Dichotomous Key Construction

Characteristics used should be consistent and not affected by environmental factors.
Characteristics should be directly observable.
Use quantitative measurements with specific amounts or dimensions rather than vague terms.
Include the anatomical part in the description of the characteristic.
Frame choices positively, using "is" instead of "is not".

The Six Kingdoms

Plantae: Multicellular, eukaryotic - Plants
Animalia: Multicellular, eukaryotic - Animals
Fungi: Multicellular, eukaryotic - Fungi
Protista: Eukaryotic, unicellular, and multicellular - Organisms that don't fit in other kingdoms.
Eubacteria: Unicellular, prokaryotic - Bacteria
Archaebacteria: Unicellular, prokaryotic - Extremophile bacteria

What is a Species?

A group of organisms that can interbreed and produce fertile offspring.
Example: Humans, dogs, horses
Breeds are variations within a species.

Description

Explore the fundamental concepts of taxonomy and classification in biology. Learn about the binomial nomenclature system introduced by Carolus Linnaeus and the hierarchy of the seven taxons. Understand the importance of classification and how it aids in scientific communication and research.