Chapter 17, Problem 18STP

Summary Introduction

To assess:

The value of the binomial system of naming organisms.

Introduction:

Taxonomy is study of identifying, naming and classifying species based on natural relationships. The taxonomic categories are part of a nested hierarchal system- each category is contained within another, as they are arranged from broadest to most specific.

Linnaeus’s system of classification was the first formal system of taxonomic organization. His method of naming organisms is called binomial nomenclature.

Answer to Problem 18STP

The importance of the binomial system of naming organisms includes:

• It is valid even today. It is used worldwide in all languages.
• It is used in Latin language which is the language of science and education.
• Helps in easy identification of species all across the world.

Explanation of Solution

• Linnaeus’s method of naming organisms is called binomial nomenclature. His system is different from Aristotle’s system and remains valid even today. It gives each species a scientific name which is written in two parts; a genus name and a specific name. The widespread use this system has made it very popular.
• Latin is the basis for binomial nomenclature because Latin is the unchanging language and historically it is the language of science and education.
• Biologists use scientific names to refer to a particular species because common names vary in their use worldwide. Binomial nomenclature is useful because common names can be misleading.