Biological Classification and Taxonomy

Definition of Classification and Taxonomy

• Classification: Defined as the grouping of organisms according to their structural similarity.

• Taxonomy: The scientific study of naming, defining, and classifying groups of biological organisms based on shared characteristics.

Hierarchical Classification System

• Taxa / Groups: Organisms are classified using a hierarchical classification system that categorizes biological organisms into distinct groups or taxa.

• Hierarchy Order: Taxa are arranged from the largest group down to the smallest (species).

• Subdivisions of the Hierarchy:

  • Kingdom: The largest classification group (there are & Kingdom of organisms).

  • Phylum (plural: Phyla): Kingdoms are subdivided into smaller groups known as phyla.

  • Class: Each phylum is further subdivided into classes.

  • Order: Classes are subdivided into orders.

  • Family: Orders are subdivided into families.

  • Genus: Families are subdivided into genera.

  • Species: The smallest classification group.