subórdenes

A suborder is a taxonomic rank used in biological classification, situated between the rank of order and the rank of family. It is a subdivision of an order, encompassing a group of related families or other suborders. The purpose of suborders is to provide a more granular and detailed classification of living organisms, allowing for finer distinctions within larger, more diverse orders.

For example, in the classification of mammals, the order Carnivora includes several suborders, such as Caniformia (dog-like carnivores) and Feliformia (cat-like carnivores). Each of these suborders then contains various families, like Canidae (dogs) and Felidae (cats), respectively. This hierarchical structure helps scientists organize and understand the evolutionary relationships between different species.

The use of suborders is not mandatory in all taxonomic systems, and their presence or absence can vary depending on the specific group of organisms being classified and the prevailing taxonomic conventions. However, when employed, suborders contribute to a more refined understanding of biodiversity and the evolutionary pathways that have led to the vast array of life on Earth. The establishment of a suborder requires sufficient scientific evidence, typically based on morphological, genetic, and evolutionary data, to justify its distinct taxonomic status.