18.1 Finding Order in Diversity
To study the diversity of life, biologists use a classification system to name organisms and group them in a logical manner. Taxonomy
Common names can be confusing and vary between regions. Scientists agreed to use Latin and Greek when assigning scientific names to organisms. This practice is still followed today as new organisms are discovered.
Two-word naming system used in differentiating a species Genus species A genus is a group of related species. Ursus arctos Ursus maritimus
Includes seven levels- from smallest to largest Species, Genus, Family, Order, Class, Phylum, Kingdom Each level is called a taxon.
Family Genera that share many characteristics Ursidae Ursidae Ursus arctos Ursidae Ursus maritimus Ursidae Ailuropoda melanoleuca
Order Broad taxanomic category composed of similar families Carnivora Canidae Felidae Ursidae
Class Composed of similar orders Mammalia Includes animals that are warm blooded, have body hair, and produce milk for their young.
Phylum Includes many different organisms that share important characteristics Chordata Mammalia Aves Reptilia Amphibia Several classes of fish
Kingdom Largest and most inclusive level Linnaeus started with only 2- Animals & Plants Now, we recognize 6! Plants, Animals, Protists, Fungi, Archaebacteria, Eubacteria.