nomenklatur

Nomenklatur, in English usually rendered nomenclature, is the system of names used in a particular field of science or activity. It comprises conventions and rules designed to ensure that each entity has a unique, internationally recognizable name, enabling clear communication. Nomenclature complements classification by focusing on naming rather than relationships. In German-speaking contexts the term Nomenklatur is widely used, while English texts typically use nomenclature.

In biology, nomenclature underpins the widely used binomial system, which names species by a genus and a species epithet (for example, Homo sapiens). Names are Latinized and published with a description and a type specimen. The main codes are the International Code of Nomenclature for algae, fungi, and plants (ICNafp), the International Code of Zoological Nomenclature (ICZN), and the International Code of Nomenclature of Prokaryotes (ICNP). The principle of priority generally gives precedence to the earliest validly published name, though synonyms and subsequent reclassifications occur to reflect new understanding while aiming for stability.

In chemistry, IUPAC provides systematic names for chemical substances to ensure precision, though common names may also be used. IUPAC names strive for unambiguous interpretation across languages and disciplines. Astronomy has its own naming practices governed by the International Astronomical Union (IAU). Other domains maintain specialized nomenclatures for terminology, units, and classifications.

Registries and databases support standardized nomenclature, including IPNI (International Plant Names Index) for plants, Index Fungorum for fungi, and ZooBank for zoological names. These resources help track publications, authorship, and typifications, contributing to consistency across scientific communication.