Binomial Nomenclature: Definition, Examples, Rules, Importance, Systematics

What is Binomial Nomenclature?

Binomial nomenclature refers to the use of two scientific names to name living things. This was given by Carl Linnaeus in order to assign every species a different and universal name that can be used globally. The two components of the name are the genus and species, in Latin and italicised. It prevents confusion arising due to varying local names for a similar organism. Some important point regarding the binomial nomenclature is given below:

• Names assigned under this system are universally accepted by scientists.

• It helps in the classification and grouping of living organisms in an appropriate manner.

• Binomial names are generally derived from Latin or Greek.

Rules of Binomial Nomenclature

Nomenclature rules help in giving suitable and approved scientific names to living things. Organisations from around the world, like the ICBN (International Code of Botanical Nomenclature) and ICZN (International Code of Zoological Nomenclature), set these regulations. They make sure that the names are clear and used by researchers worldwide. The basic binomial rules are discussed below:

• Names to be in Latin or Latinised.

• The name of the genus begins with a capital letter, and the name of the species begins with a lowercase letter.

• Any such designation for each species should belong exclusively to its genus.

• Names need to be descriptive.

• Publication in recognised scientific journals is, however, necessary for formal recognition.

• The type specimens, holotype and paratypes, have to be designated and lodged in recognised institutions.

Principles of Binomial Nomenclature

Binomial nomenclature has some rules to make sure that names of living things are concise and the same for all humans in the entire world. Every organism receives a two-word name consisting of the genus and species that scientifically describe it. These names are assigned based on agreed-upon guidelines so that scientists all over the globe can recognise and refer to the same species without any confusion. The basic principles of binomial nomenclature are given below:

Genus and Species

Binomial nomenclature is a way by which any organism is specifically identified with a two-part name: genus and species. The genus is a more general group that related species belong to, while the species epithet distinguishes the individual organisms in that genus.

Latin Binomial Names

Binomial nomenclature is formed according to certain rules and conventions. The genus names are capitalised and italicised or underlined, whereas the species epithet is lowercase and italicised or underlined in handwritten matter. All these Latinised names are used universally for maintaining consistency and clarity in scientific communication.

Importance of Binomial Nomenclature

Binomial nomenclature is useful as it provides a common name to each species, making it easier for scientists and individuals worldwide to understand each other. Major importance is discussed below:

• It eliminates the confusion brought about by common names, which vary in each language and location.

• Binomial names are the basic tools used in biodiversity studies for cataloguing and investigating the diverse forms of life on Earth.

• It is impossible to conduct conservation without these names, monitoring the distribution of species, threats to them, and ways of preserving biodiversity effectively is only possible by binomial names.

Practical Applications

Binomial nomenclature is helpful in numerous practical ways as it assigns a permanent scientific name to each organism.

• In the field of medicine, correct species identification is used to diagnose diseases and develop a prescription.

• In agriculture, a certain species is required for crop breeding, pest management, and soil conservation.

• In ecology, binomial names are used to understand species interactions, biodiversity patterns, and ecosystem dynamics.

Evolution and Modern Applications

The history of binomial nomenclature starts when scientists realised they needed a very simple and global system for naming living organisms. Prior to this system, the names were lengthy and varied in each place, making it difficult to name species. In the 18th century, Carl Linnaeus came up with the two-name system widely practised today. Over time, international guidelines were established to improve the system and accuracy.

• Since its invention by Carl Linnaeus in the 18th century, binomial nomenclature has undergone great revisions.

• The original attempt was made to classify and name the then-known species, and as new ones are discovered and with increasing understanding through science, there have been many changes and refinements to the system.

• Modern-day challenges to taxonomy include the merging of molecular data with traditional morphology-based methods, the solution to the problem of phylogenetic relationships and that of taxonomic incongruences.

• Adaptation in Binomial nomenclature gives a way of integrating digital databases of information, DNA barcoding, and mathematical tools for accurate classification and identification of species.

Drawbacks of Binomial Nomenclature

While binomial nomenclature is highly beneficial, it suffers from a number of disadvantages which lead to trouble in some circumstances. Some of the major drawbacks are discussed below:

• Limited descriptive data, except for genus and species.

• Language and Cultural bias in the case of Latin-based names

• Difficult for the ordinary masses to remember or retain the names.

• Resistance to change with the acquisition of new scientific knowledge

• Inflexibility in hierarchical classification does not capture genetic diversity

• Reliance on type specimens to validate a species

• Complexity in the rules of nomenclature resulted in inconsistencies

• Difficulty in dealing with the naming and management of taxa with large subspecies.

• Inability to exchange with other alternative taxonomic systems, such as Molecular Phylogenetics.

Binomial Nomenclature NEET MCQs

Q1. Which of the following is contrary to the universal rules of nomenclature?

1. The names are written in Latin and are Italicised.

2. The first word in a biological name represents the genus name and the second one is a specific epithet.

3. Biological names can be written in any language.

4. When written by hand, the names are to be underlined.

Correct answer: 3) Biological names can be written in any language.

Explanation:

Binomial Nomenclature- It is a system of naming organisms in which it is given only one name consisting of two words. The first word is the generic name, and the second is the specific name.

E.g., Homo sapiens, Mangifera indica, and Ocimum sanctum. It was given by Carolus Linnaeus.

According to the universal rule, biological names should be written in Latin only because they originate from Latin and should be printed in italics.

Hence, the correct answer is option 3) Biological names can be written in any language.

Q2. Binomial nomenclature means

1. One name given by two taxonomists

2. Two names , one latinized , other of a person

3. Two names , one scientific, other local

4. Two-word names , the first indicates genus and other species

Correct answer: 4) Two-word names , the first indicates genus and other species

Explanation:

Binomial Nomenclature is a system of naming organisms, in which it is given only one name consisting of two words. The first word is the generic name and the second is the specific name.

E.g Homo sapiens, Mangifera indica,Ocimum sanctum. It was given by Carolus Linnaeus. Binomial nomenclature is the system of providing a name consisting of two words -- first generic and second specific. Example - Homo sapiens,

Homo =genus , sapiens = species

Hence, the correct answer is option 4 Two Two-word names, the first indicates genus and other species.

Q3. Scientific names given to plants are based on the principles standardized by

1. ICBN

2. ICNB

3. ICZN

4. ICNCP

Correct answer: 1) ICBN

Explanation:

International Code of Botanical Nomenclature. The International Code of Botanical Nomenclature (ICBN) provides a set of rules and recommendations for naming plants. It ensures consistency and clarity in the naming of plant species, based on their unique characteristics and classification. The ICBN aims to prevent confusion and maintain stability in the scientific naming of plants across different regions and languages.

Hence, the correct answer is option 1) ICBN.

Also Read:

• MCQs on Binomial Nomenclature

• Scientific Names of Animals and Plants

• Taxonomical Aids

FAQs on Binomial Nomenclature

Define binomial nomenclature.

Binomial nomenclature is a system of naming species of living organisms. It consists of two words. The first word is the genus name, and the second is the specific epithet. Together, the two words form the scientific name of the species, which is unique and universally accepted. This system of naming was developed by Carl Linnaeus. The binomial system ensures that each species has a unique name and helps to eliminate confusion and misunderstandings when communicating about different species. For example, the scientific name for humans is Homo sapiens.

Who introduced binomial nomenclature?

The binomial nomenclature was formalized as the modern system of naming organisms by the Swedish naturalist Carl Linnaeus. He is also known as Carl von Linné or Carolus Linnaeus and was born in 1707. Linnaeus was a botanist, zoologist, and physician who is considered one of the founders of modern taxonomy. He is best known for his work "Systema Naturae," which was published in 1735, and in which he presented his system of naming organisms using a two-word naming system, which is now known as binomial nomenclature.

What are the rules of binomial nomenclature?

• Names to be in Latin or Latinised.

• Names need to be descriptive.

• The name has two parts, genus and species.

• The genus name should start with a capital letter, the species name with a small letter.

• One name should be unique and universally accepted.

• The naming must follow guidelines of ICZN for animals and ICBN (now ICN) for plants.

Why is binomial nomenclature important?

Binomial nomenclature is important because it provides a standard and universally recognized name for each species. This avoids confusion from regional or common names. It also shows the relationship between organisms, since the genus groups closely related species. This system helps scientists across the world communicate effectively and ensures clarity in biological classification and research.

Recommended Video on Binomial Nomenclature