artnamn

ArtNamn refers to the formal name of a species used in biological classification, defined by the system of binomial nomenclature. Each artnamn consists of two parts: the genus name and the specific epithet. For example, Homo sapiens. The genus name is capitalized, the species epithet is in lower case, and the full name is typically written in italics.

The system was developed by Carl Linnaeus in the 18th century and provides universal, language-independent names that can be used across borders. Names are governed by separate nomenclature codes depending on the group: the ICZN for animals, and the ICNafp for plants, algae, and fungi. Names are established by publication and are linked to type specimens that anchor the identity of the species.

Rules governing artnamn include uniqueness within a group, priority of publication, and stability through a formal naming process. Names may be revised if taxa are reclassified, in which case older names become synonyms. The authority and year (for example, Linnaeus, 1758) may be appended to the name to indicate the original description.

Etymology of artnamn often reflects a trait, habitat, geographic origin, or honors a person. They are typically Latin or latinized forms. In practice, artnamn provide precise, cross-language references to species, while vernacular names vary widely and are not standardized. Within scientific texts, the genus may be abbreviated after the first full mention (H. sapiens).