Lecture 2 - Binomial Nomenclature

Question 1

Study of the precise system and method of naming organisms

Indicates the ranks of taxonomic groups as well as the application of names to such groups

Answer 1

Nomenclature

Question 2

Involves construction, interpretation, and application of the regulations governing the system.

Answer 2

Nomenclature

Question 3

What is the general format of the Binary system/Linnaean binomial nomenclature

Answer 3

[Genus][species] Author, year

Question 4

Function of the scientific name

Answer 4

Provide a stable “handle” and are also rich in informational content

Question 5

Nomenclature Principles (7)

Answer 5

1. Botanical, zoological, and prokaryotic nomenclatures are independent of each other (Note: Prokaryotes should avoid using existing plant and animal names)
2. Names must be published
3. Names are based on type of specimens
4. Names are based on priority of publication
5. There should only be one correct name
6. Names are latinized
7. All rules are retroactive unless expressly limited

Question 6

Independent governing Bodies of Nomenclature (5)

Answer 6

• ICZN (International Commission on Zoological Nomenclature)
  -ICN (International Commission on the Nomenclature of Algae, Fungi, and Plants)
• ICNB (International Commission on the Nomenclature of Bacteria)
• ICNCP (International Commission on the Nomenclature of Bacteria)
• ICTV (International Committee on the Taxonomy of Viruses)

Question 7

What are the three types of specimens

Answer 7

Holotype
Isotype
Paratype
Syntype
Lectotype
Neotype

Question 8

This is the original specimen upon which a specimen is based

Answer 8

Holotype

Question 9

This is a duplicate specimen of the holotype; collected at the same time by the same person from the same population

Answer 9

Isotype

Question 10

Additional specimens cited in the description

Answer 10

Paratype

Question 11

This refers to any specimen cited in the original publication when a holotype waws not designated

Answer 11

Syntype

Question 12

This refers to any specimen that started as a syntype but got upgraded into a holotype if there was no designated holotype or if the holotype is missing.

Answer 12

Lectotype

Question 13

Specimen not from the original collection selected to be the type when all original material is missing

Answer 13

Neotype

Question 14

What estimated dates would be the earliest for names in terms of publications?

Answer 14

Vasc plants, algae, and fungi - 1 May 1753 (Linnaeus)
Animals - 1758
Mosses - 1 January 1801