Taxonomy Note PDF

Feb 10nth taxonomy note Taxonomy- the science of classifying, identifying, and naming organisms. Taxonomists have named and classified over 2 million different species. This would not be possible if it werent for a universal and consistent system. Classification is based on phylogeny (evolutionary...

Feb 10nth taxonomy note Taxonomy- the science of classifying, identifying, and naming organisms. Taxonomists have named and classified over 2 million different species. This would not be possible if it werent for a universal and consistent system. Classification is based on phylogeny (evolutionary relatedness), morphology, and genetics. Scientists can use dichotomous keys (a series of branching, two part statements) to help them identify organisms. The seven basic taxonomic levels (taxa) were first developed by Carl Linnaeus (1707-1778) who grouped organisms based on structural similarities. Linnean system of classification: taxon example Kingdom anamalia phylum chordata class Mammalia order primates Family Homonidae genus homo species Homo sapien Linneaus also developed the formal naming system that is still used today called binomial nomenclature. The first name is the genus name and the second name is the specific name. All living things on earth can be initially catagorized into 6 kingdoms: eubacteria, archea, protista, fungi, plantea, and anamalia. It is interesting to note that insects, coral, sea sponges, worms, rabbits, and humans are all similar enough to be in the same kingdom- the animal kingdom.