underfamily
An underfamily is a taxonomic rank used in biological classification, specifically within the context of the Linnaean system of nomenclature. It is a subdivision of a family, and is used to group closely related genera that are not closely enough related to form a separate family. The term "underfamily" is derived from the Latin word "sub," meaning "under" or "below," and "familia," meaning "family."
Underfamilies are often used in the classification of plants, particularly in the Angiosperms (flowering plants), where
In the classification of animals, underfamilies are less commonly used, as the relationships between genera are
The use of underfamilies is a matter of convention and can vary between different taxonomic systems. In
In summary, an underfamily is a taxonomic rank used to group closely related genera within a family.