Scientific nomenclature is the standardized system of naming living organisms using internationally accepted rules and principles. It provides every organism with a unique scientific name so that scientists throughout the world can identify and communicate about organisms without confusion caused by local or common names.
The modern system of scientific nomenclature was introduced by through the method of binomial nomenclature.
In binomial nomenclature, every organism is given two names:
- Generic name (Genus)
- Specific epithet (Species)
Example:
- Mango — Mangifera indica
- Human — Homo sapiens
Here, Mangifera and Homo are genus names, while indica and sapiens are species names.
Principles of Scientific Nomenclature
The scientific naming of organisms follows certain universal principles.
General Principles
1. Universality
Scientific names are accepted and used worldwide irrespective of language or country.
2. Binomial System
Each species is represented by two words:
- Genus name
- Species name
Example: Oryza sativa (rice)
3. Latinization
Scientific names are usually derived from Latin or are latinized because Latin is considered a universal and stable language.
4. Uniqueness
Each organism must have only one correct scientific name.
5. Priority
The earliest validly published name is accepted as the correct name.
6. Typification
Every scientific name is based on a type specimen or type concept that serves as a reference.
7. Standardized Rules
Naming must follow internationally accepted codes.
Process of Scientific Nomenclature
The process of naming organisms generally includes the following steps:
1. Discovery and Identification
A new organism is discovered and carefully studied.
2. Classification
The organism is placed into appropriate taxonomic categories such as kingdom, phylum/division, class, order, family, genus, and species.
3. Determination of Novelty
Scientists compare it with previously known organisms to confirm whether it is a new species.
4. Selection of Scientific Name
A binomial name is chosen according to international rules.
Rules for Writing Scientific Names
- Genus name begins with a capital letter.
- Species name begins with a small letter.
- Both words are italicized when printed.
- When handwritten, each word is underlined separately.
Example:
- Azadirachta indica
5. Description and Publication
A detailed scientific description is published in a recognized scientific journal or book.
6. Designation of Type Specimen
A preserved specimen is deposited in a herbarium or museum as a permanent reference.
Legal Authority for Scientific Nomenclature
Different groups of organisms are governed by separate international codes.
Scientific Nomenclature of Plants
Legal Authority
Plant nomenclature is governed by the:
through the
Previously, it was called the International Code of Botanical Nomenclature (ICBN).
The ICN is adopted during the International Botanical Congress held periodically.
Important Principles of Plant Nomenclature
- Botanical nomenclature is independent of zoological nomenclature.
- Names are based on priority of publication.
- Each taxon has only one correct name.
- Scientific names are treated as Latin.
- Typification is essential.
Example
- Tea plant — Camellia sinensis
- Rice — Oryza sativa
Scientific Nomenclature of Animals
Legal Authority
Animal nomenclature is regulated by the:
through the
The ICZN provides rules for naming all animals.
Important Principles of Animal Nomenclature
- Each animal species has a unique scientific name.
- The principle of priority is followed.
- Names are latinized.
- Type specimens are mandatory.
- Scientific names must be validly published.
Example
- Human — Homo sapiens
- Tiger — Panthera tigris
Difference Between Plant and Animal Nomenclature
| Feature | Plant Nomenclature | Animal Nomenclature |
|---|---|---|
| Governing Code | ICN | ICZN |
| Governing Authority | International Botanical Congress/IAPT | International Commission on Zoological Nomenclature |
| Starting Point of Priority | 1753 (Species Plantarum) | 1758 (Systema Naturae) |
| Type Specimen | Herbarium specimen | Museum specimen |
Conclusion
Scientific nomenclature is an essential system in biology that ensures accurate identification and universal communication about living organisms. The naming of plants and animals follows internationally accepted principles and legal codes such as the ICN for plants and the ICZN for animals. This standardized system avoids confusion and promotes scientific research across the world.
No comments:
Post a Comment