1. plant taxonomy Flashcards
what is systematics
the scientific study of the diversity of organisms and their evolutionary relationships. It aims to classify and organize living organisms based on their evolutionary history, genetic information, and morphological characteristics. Systematics encompasses both taxonomy (the naming and classification of organisms) and phylogenetics (the study of evolutionary relationships).
Who was Linnaeus & what did he do?
a Swedish botanist, physician, and zoologist who is widely regarded as the father of modern taxonomy. He developed the system of naming, ranking, and classifying organisms that is still in use today, known as binomial nomenclature.
What is a herbarium and what are they used for?
a collection of preserved plant specimens that are carefully organized, labeled, and stored for scientific study and reference. The specimens are typically dried and mounted on sheets of paper, along with detailed information about where, when, and by whom the plant was collected. In some cases, herbaria may also include specimens preserved in liquid, photographs, or other plant materials like seeds or bark.
Why are knowing plant families important?
identifying plant characteristics, predicting their uses, managing crops and pests, supporting biodiversity, advancing medicinal research, and promoting conservation. It simplifies the study of plants and allows for more efficient communication and application of botanical knowledge across various fields.
How has molecular biology changed systematics?
providing new tools and data to more accurately determine evolutionary relationships. Traditional systematics relied primarily on morphological traits (physical features), but molecular biology has introduced genetic information as a much more precise and reliable source of data
How are organisms named?
Organisms are named using binomial nomenclature, giving each species a two-part name (genus and species) that is universally recognized. This system, governed by international rules, ensures that species are consistently and accurately named and classified, facilitating clear communication in biology across languages and regions.
examples of latin name of a plant
Solanum lycopersicum – Tomato
* Genus: Solanum
* Species: lycopersicum
Zea mays – Corn/Maize
* Genus: Zea
* Species: mays
kingdom
The largest and most inclusive category in the traditional system. Animalia, Plantae, Fungi
phylum
Organisms in a phylum share general body plans and other significant features, but there is still a great deal of diversity within a phylum. Chordata, Arthropoda
class
This rank further divides organisms within a phylum based on more specific characteristics. Mammalia, Insecta
order
Organisms in a class are grouped into orders based on shared traits, typically related to body structure and reproductive strategies. Primates, Coleoptera
family
more specific group within an order. Organisms in the same family share even more characteristics. Hominidae
genus
one or more species that are closely related. Organisms in the same genus are very similar in terms of evolutionary history and physical characteristics. Homo
species
most specific rank in the classification system. A species is a group of organisms that can interbreed and produce fertile offspring. Homo sapiens