Classification
From Palaeos.org
| TAXONOMY |
| Classification | Evolutionary Taxonomy | Linnaean Taxonomy | Nomenclature | Taxonomic inertia |
In biology, a classification is a system of uniting taxa into a system of interconnected units in order to reflect features uniting them. Classifications may be either artificial (built on arbitrarily-chosen features to facilitate the worker's convenience) or natural (supposedly derived from the evolutionary relationships of the taxa). Most authors would currently favour the latter, though artificial classifications may still be in use for groups of organisms (such as anamorphic fungi) in which evolutionary relationships are difficult to establish. Many groups of organisms may have different classificatory systems in use at the same time due to differing opinions between different authors, and classifications may also change as authors refine their investigations.
Classification should be distinguished from nomenclature, which is the investigation of correct names for taxa. Classification and nomenclature together form taxonomy.
Credits
CKT070412
