Binomial Nomenclature

Carolus Linnaeus

What is Binomial Nomenclature?

A standardized two-word naming system for all living organisms, developed by Carolus Linnaeus.

Why do we need two names?

Just like many people can have the same first name, we use two names to clearly identify one specific organism.

Human Naming
People
Ram Sharma
→
Same Logic
Scientific Naming
Tiger
Panthera tigris
Genus (Capital letter) + specific epithet (small letter) Always in italics or underlined when handwritten

Important Rules of Binomial Nomenclature

1. Exactly two words
Genus + specific epithet only
2. Genus name
Always starts with Capital letter
3. Specific epithet
Always starts with small letter
4. Writing style
Always in italics (or underlined when handwritten)
5. No extra elements
No numbers, symbols or additional words (basic level)
6. Main purpose
Prevents confusion from common/local names

Real Examples

Lion
Panthera leo

Lion

Mango
Mangifera indica

Mango

Human
Homo sapiens

Human

Domestic dog
canis familiaris

Wrong: Genus must be capital

tiger
Panthera Tigris

Wrong: Specific epithet must be small

Knowledge Check Quiz

Binomial Nomenclature Quiz

10 questions • Random order

Question 1/10 Score: 0