slekter

Slekter, the Norwegian term for the taxonomic rank genus, is a rank in biological classification. A slekt comprises one or more species that are closely related and share distinctive features. In the standard hierarchy, a slekt is above species and below family.

Genus names are capitalized and usually italicized. A species name combines the genus name with the specific epithet, e.g., Homo sapiens, where Homo is the genus. Each slekt has a type species that defines its name. Slekt can be monotypic, containing only a single species, or include many species.

Delimitation and rules: The naming and circumscription of slekter are governed by formal codes. For animals, the International Code of Zoological Nomenclature (ICZN) applies; for plants, algae, and fungi, the International Code of Nomenclature for algae, fungi, and plants (ICN) applies. Taxonomic changes may split or merge slekter as new evidence emerges, often from morphology or molecular phylogenetics. The goal is to reflect evolutionary relationships, often emphasizing monophyly.

Examples and usage: Well-known genera include Homo (humans), Felis (domestic cats), and Quercus (oaks). In everyday language, slekt can also mean lineage or kinship, not strictly a formal taxonomic category.