Linnaean taxonomy

Definition

Linnaean taxonomy is a hierarchical system for classifying and naming organisms developed by Carl Linnaeus. It organizes biological diversity into categories like kingdom, phylum, class, order, family, genus, and species.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Linnaean taxonomy uses a binomial nomenclature system to provide each species with a unique two-part name consisting of the genus and species.
2. The hierarchy starts with broad categories like kingdom and narrows down to specific ones like species.
3. Though initially developed in the 18th century, Linnaean taxonomy has been modified but still serves as the foundation for modern classification.
4. In microbiology, Linnaean taxonomy helps categorize microorganisms which can be challenging due to their microscopic size.
5. Modern techniques such as genetic analysis have supplemented traditional Linnaean methods to classify microorganisms more accurately.

Review Questions

• What are the primary levels of classification in Linnaean taxonomy?
• How does binomial nomenclature work in this system?
• Why is Linnaean taxonomy still important in modern microbiology?

Related terms

Binomial Nomenclature: A naming system where each species receives a two-part Latin name consisting of its genus and species.

Phylogenetics: The study of evolutionary relationships among biological entities often used to complement Linnaean taxonomy.

Microorganisms: Microscopic living organisms that can be classified using both traditional and modern taxonomic methods.