1: Introduction to Taxonomy & Systematics

What is Taxonomy?

The practice of describing, identifying, naming & classifying organisms.

What are Systematics?

The practice of consructing hypothesized trees of descent among taxa

What is a Cladogram?

A diagram used to represent hypothetical relationship among groups.

What is a Clade?

A group of organisms that include all descendants of a common ancestor.

What is meant by Monophyly?

Monophylyl includes the most recent common ancestor and all descendants of that ancestor.

What is meant by Paraphyly?

Paraphyly includes the most recent common ancestor but does not contain descendants

What is meant by Polyphyly?

Polyphyly does not include the most recent common ancestor of all its members

What are the four principles for named ranks in classification system?

1. Groupings should be monophyletic

2. Named groups should be easily recognizable

3. Groups that are well established should be preserved; names changes should be avoided

4. Size of groups should be manageable (varies)

Why are the principles important for the classification system?

Groups should help identify, recall and allow conversation about taxa.

Classification hierarchy:

Domain

Kingdom

Phylum

Class

Order

Family

Genus

Species

When were the rules of Botanical Nomenclature started?

May 1st, 1753

What is Binomial nomenclature? What does it consist of?

Formal name/latin name. Consist of genus and species.

What are the 5 basic rules to binomial nomenclature?

1. Genus name may stand alone

2. Specific epithet is like an adjective

3. Scientific name are always italicized or underlined.

4. If referring to an unidentified specie of a known genus, use Genus sp

Additional rules

Principle of priority

How did Linnaeu name so many species?