Summary
The science of naming, describing and classifying organisms.
In depth
It has three parts: classification (grouping), nomenclature (naming) and identification. Aristotle sorted organisms; John Ray defined species; Linnaeus produced the modern system in Systema Naturae (1735). Today taxonomy uses evolutionary relationships.
About 2 million species are named; estimates of total range from 8 million to many more.
Taxonomists collect, describe and compare specimens, with type specimens in museums as reference. New species are published with a formal description.
Key idea: classification makes biological communication universal.
Frequently asked questions
What is Taxonomy?
The science of naming, describing and classifying organisms.
Which area of biology covers Taxonomy, and how advanced is it?
Taxonomy is one of the 52 topics in Taxonomy & Biodiversity. It is rated Beginner, so it suits learners who are starting out in biology. Related topics in this area include Linnaeus, PhyloCode, Binomial Nomenclature.
Can you give an example of Taxonomy?
DNA data have moved fungi out of the plant kingdom.
What should I learn before Taxonomy?
Taxonomy is a Beginner topic, so no earlier topic is required. Other Beginner topics in Taxonomy & Biodiversity that pair well with it include Binomial Nomenclature, Taxonomic Hierarchy, Three Domains of Life.
What topics are related to Taxonomy?
The closest topics to Taxonomy are Linnaeus, PhyloCode, Binomial Nomenclature, Species. Comparing them side by side is a good way to see how the ideas connect.
How can I check that I understand Taxonomy?
Read the summary and the in-depth section, then use the quick check on the interactive lesson for Taxonomy. To practise the whole of Taxonomy & Biodiversity, use the Taxonomy & Biodiversity quiz.
How is Taxonomy different from Linnaeus?
Taxonomy: The science of naming, describing and classifying organisms. Linnaeus: Carl Linnaeus, the 18th-century Swedish scientist who established the modern hierarchical classification system. Read both side by side and note what each one explains.
How should I study Taxonomy 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 Linnaeus and explain the difference aloud. Finally, take the Taxonomy & Biodiversity quiz and come back to this page for any question you miss.