Taxonomy
B
Binomial Nomenclature
/ /bʌɪˈnəʊmɪəl ˌnɒmənˈkleɪtʃə/ /
Quick Definition
The two-part scientific naming system for species, using a genus name and a specific epithet, established by Carl Linnaeus in 1758.
📖 Full Definition
Binomial nomenclature is the formal system of two-part Latin or Latinised names for species established by Carl Linnaeus in "Systema Naturae" (10th edition, 1758). The first element is the genus name (capitalised), the second is the specific epithet (lower case). Together they form the species name, which is always italicised. The name is followed by the author who described the species and the year, e.g., Gadus morhua Linnaeus, 1758. This universal system allows unambiguous communication across languages.
💡 Examples & Context
Salmo salar Linnaeus, 1758 is the binomial name for the Atlantic salmon. Salmo is the genus; salar ("the leaper") is the specific epithet given by Linnaeus in 1758.