What is taxonomy?
Definition:
The exact definition of taxonomy varies from source to source, but the core of the discipline remains: the conception, naming, and classification of groups of organisms. As points of reference, recent definitions of taxonomy are presented below.
Theory and practice of grouping individuals into species, arranging species into larger groups, and giving those groups names, thus producing a classification.
A field of science (and major component of systematics) that encompasses description, identification, nomenclature, and classification
The science of classification, in biology the arrangement of organisms into a classification
“The science of classification as applied to living organisms, including the study of means of formation of species, etc.”
“The analysis of an organism’s characteristics for the purpose of classification”
“Systematics studies phylogeny to provide a pattern that can be translated into the classification and names of the more inclusive field of taxonomy” (listed as a desirable but unusual definition).
