Taxonomy

Taxonomy

• The scientific study of classification and binomial nomenclature.

Classification

• A method of organizing current and past organisms into categories based on shared characteristics.

Initial Basis of Classification

• Morphology: The external form and shape of organisms.

• Anatomy: The internal body structure, studied using advanced technology like microscopes.

Hierarchical Levels of Classification (from broadest to most specific):

1. Kingdom – Broadest level (e.g., whether it has a cell wall)

2. Phylum – Based on features like having a backbone or not

3. Class – e.g., Mammalian

4. Order

5. Family

6. Genus

7. Species – Most specific level

Note: As you move down the levels, organisms become more closely related.