Rules of Binomial Nomenclature

Binomial nomenclature is a binomial naming system for organisms or species. A binomial name means that it has two parts. These two parts are the generic name (genus name) and the specific name, also known as a specific epithet. These names form part of the botanical nomenclature. In short, it is a type of two-term naming system. This naming system plays a vital role in biology in integrating the naming systems across life sciences. Therefore, assigning one specific unique name identifier takes place by experts for a particular species across multiple languages. The use of this naming system takes place by taxonomists in identifying a species of a specific organism. Let us learn more about this naming system.

What are rules of binomial nomenclature

Rules of binomial nomenclature

Binomial name, as previously mentioned, has two parts- the Genus and the species. Their writing takes place in modern Latin. The derivation of either the Genus or species name can occur from any language. Use of both genus and species names happens for referring to the name of an organism species. For example, human beings in Binomial nomenclature are called Homo sapiens.

The Genus

The genus name or the generic name starts with a capital letter. For example, Canis familiaris is for the animal dog. The genus name must be within each kingdom and also should be unique. Also, the same genus has more than one species.

The Species

The species within the Genus are referred to by other names based on discipline. Furthermore, experts use the term specific descriptor for the species. In the field of Botany, the use of a particular epithet takes place. In Zoology, the use of a specific name takes place. The species name can occur multiple times within a particular kingdom.

Unlike the genus, the species name always starts with a lowercase letter. The species name must agree with the genus name Latin gender, whether masculine, feminine or neuter. 

Writing using binomial names.

The writing of the Binomial names by computer must always take place in italics font.  For binomial names written by hand, the underlining of the genus and species must take place separately. 

Using abbreviations of binomial names

If the repetition of a binomial name takes place several times, the writing of the genus can take place in full the first time it is used and from that point on in an abbreviated form. The creation of abbreviation takes place using the first letter of the Genus and a period. For example, consider the blue whale; after writing its full binomial name Balaenoptera musculus, its writing can occur as B.

Importance of binomial nomenclature

Binomial nomenclature helps in standardising the naming of living organisms. The naming of living organisms under this system helps know a specific organism by the same name worldwide. Such a description of an organism allows individuals living anywhere on earth to reach the same name.

This naming system allows individuals on a global level to indulge in clear communication regarding plant and animal species. Moreover, this naming system ensures the uniqueness of the scientific name.

For example, Panthera tigris is the scientific name for the animal tiger. This particular scientific name cannot be given to any animal other than tigers.

Unlike scientific names, common names lack uniqueness. Therefore, a massive level of confusion and disputes can occur regarding the exact identity of a particular animal or plant. This confusion can be effectively eliminated by the unique scientific names of this naming system.

Popular Examples of Binomial nomenclature

Below is the list of some examples of familiar names and their binomial names under this naming system: 

 Conclusion

Binomial nomenclature is a binomial naming system of organisms or species. A binomial name has a generic name and a specific name. So, it is a two-term naming system. This naming system has specific rules that must be kept in mind. These rules are regarding the genus, the species, writing using binomial names and abbreviations of binomial names. This naming system has various advantages which must be understood when studying it. Also, Biology students must memorise a handful of binomial names of certain common names.