1.5 Taxonomy and Cladistics

Taxonomy

the science of naming, describing, and classifying organisms

What is needed for a classification system?

1. Data/evidence

2. Appropriate groups

3. Agreed names

4. Process and priorities

Linnaean system of classification

classification system based on morphology (appearance) consisting of taxa

taxa (singular, taxon)

hierarchy of groupings ranging from most general (domain) to most specific (species)

Order of taxa

Domain, Kingdom, Phyla, Class, Order, Family, Genus, Species

Binomial nomenclature

organisms are universally and internationally identified using the genus and species names

6 Kingdoms in order of discovery

Plantae, animalia, protista, eubacteria, fungi, archaebacteria

Three Domains of Life

eubacteria, archaea, and eukarya

Classification of humans

Domain: Eukarya

Kingdom: Animalia

Phyla: Chordates (animals with backbone)

Class: Mammals (fur, hair, milk glands)

Order: Primate (mammals with collarbones and grasping fingers)

Family: Hominids (primates with flat faces and three-dimensional vision)

Genus: Homo (hominids with upright posture and large brains)

Species: Homo sapiens (members of the genus Homo with high forehead and thin skull bones)