Naming species: binomial nomenclature
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Question
Define binomial nomenclature.
Answer
The system of naming each species with a **two-part Latin name**: **genus + species**.
Question
In a binomial name, which word is the genus?
Answer
The **first** word (it is capitalised), e.g. **Panthera** in **Panthera leo**.
Question
In a binomial name, which word is the species?
Answer
The **second** word (it is lower-case); it only has meaning alongside its genus.
Question
Define genus.
Answer
A group of **closely related species** — the first word of a scientific name.
Question
How is a binomial name written in print?
Answer
In **italics**, with the genus **capitalised** and the species **lower-case**.
Question
How do you write a binomial name by hand?
Answer
**Underline** each word (since you can't italicise by hand); genus still capitalised, species lower-case.
Question
Who created binomial nomenclature?
Answer
**Carl Linnaeus**, in the 1700s.
Question
What is the morphological species concept?
Answer
Linnaeus's idea of grouping organisms into species by their **shared physical features / appearance**.
Question
Two species share the same genus. What does that tell you?
Answer
They are **more closely related** than two species placed in **different genera**.
Question
Felis catus and Felis silvestris — how related are they?
Answer
**Closely related** — they share the genus **Felis** (the same first word).
Question
Why can't the species word be used on its own?
Answer
It has **no meaning without its genus** — different genera can reuse the same species word.
Question
Why do scientists use binomial names instead of common names?
Answer
Common names vary between languages and regions; a binomial name is **one agreed name** for each species worldwide.
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Full study notes for Naming species: binomial nomenclature
Topic 1.6 hub
Diversity of organisms
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Biology exam skills
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