Summary
Carl Linnaeus, the 18th-century Swedish scientist who established the modern hierarchical classification system.
In depth
He described around 12,000 species in later editions of Systema Naturae, using sexual parts of plants to classify them. He grouped humans with primates. His system was fixed (pre-evolutionary).
Linnaeus laid out a consistent naming scheme. His classification was based on visible traits. Later biologists changed groups as evolution became understood.
Remember: he did not propose evolution.
Frequently asked questions
What is Linnaeus?
Carl Linnaeus, the 18th-century Swedish scientist who established the modern hierarchical classification system.
Which area of biology covers Linnaeus, and how advanced is it?
Linnaeus is one of the 52 topics in Taxonomy & Biodiversity. It is rated Intermediate, so it suits learners who already know the core vocabulary. Related topics in this area include Taxonomy, Binomial Nomenclature, Kingdoms.
Can you give an example of Linnaeus?
His type specimens are kept in the Linnean Society.
What should I learn before Linnaeus?
Work through the Beginner topics in Taxonomy & Biodiversity first, such as Taxonomy, Binomial Nomenclature, Taxonomic Hierarchy, then return to Linnaeus. Intermediate topics assume the Beginner vocabulary.
What topics are related to Linnaeus?
The closest topics to Linnaeus are Taxonomy, Binomial Nomenclature, Kingdoms, DNA Barcoding. Comparing them side by side is a good way to see how the ideas connect.
How can I check that I understand Linnaeus?
Read the summary and the in-depth section, then use the quick check on the interactive lesson for Linnaeus. To practise the whole of Taxonomy & Biodiversity, use the Taxonomy & Biodiversity quiz.
How is Linnaeus different from Taxonomy?
Linnaeus: Carl Linnaeus, the 18th-century Swedish scientist who established the modern hierarchical classification system. Taxonomy: The science of naming, describing and classifying organisms. Read both side by side and note what each one explains.
How should I study Linnaeus step by step?
First, read the summary and write the definition in your own words. Second, read the in-depth section and note any example. Third, compare it with Taxonomy and explain the difference aloud. Finally, take the Taxonomy & Biodiversity quiz and come back to this page for any question you miss.