taxonomischen

Taxonomy, or taxonomic science, is the discipline concerned with naming, describing, and classifying living organisms and other organisms based on shared characteristics and evolutionary relationships. It provides a structured framework—often represented as a hierarchical system of ranks such as domain, kingdom, phylum, class, order, family, genus, and species—that helps researchers communicate about biodiversity and organize biological information. Related activities include alpha taxonomy, which involves discovering and describing new taxa, and the broader field of systematics, which seeks to understand evolutionary relationships.

Historically, taxonomy emerged with Carl Linnaeus in the 18th century, who introduced binomial nomenclature, giving each species a two-part Latin name. Modern taxonomy also relies on phylogenetics, using morphological and especially molecular data to infer relationships and revise classifications. Nomenclature is governed by formal codes to ensure stable naming: the ICZN for animals and the ICN for plants, algae, and fungi, with rules for typification and priority.

Advances in molecular techniques, such as DNA barcoding and genome sequencing, have transformed taxonomy by enabling more precise delineation of species and detection of cryptic diversity. Digital resources and databases, including NCBI Taxonomy, ITIS, WoRMS, and GBIF, support global data sharing and integration of taxonomic information.

Taxonomy plays a central role in biology, ecology, conservation, agriculture, medicine, and bioinformatics, providing a common language for identifying organisms, tracking biodiversity, and interpreting evolutionary history. Its practice continues to evolve as new data and methods refine our understanding of life's diversity.