genul

Genul, or genus in biological taxonomy, is a rank that groups together species that are closely related and share a common ancestor. It sits above species and below family. The genus name is a unique Latin label used in scientific classification and is capitalized; in written form it is often italicized (as Homo, Canis), while the plain-text representation omits italics. The binomial name of an organism consists of the genus name followed by the specific epithet, such as Homo sapiens or Canis lupus.

Each genus has a type species, which serves as the reference point for the genus's defining traits. Classification into genera is based on morphology, genetics, and phylogenetic analyses, and may change as new evidence emerges. Genera can be monotypic (containing a single species) or include many species; some revisions can move species to different genera, merge genera, or split genera.

Examples include Homo, Canis, Felis, Rosa, and Quercus. The genus concept is used in zoological and botanical nomenclature; while rules are broadly similar, details can differ between kingdoms. The term genul in Romanian corresponds to the English genus.