Learn about the history of biological classification from Aristotle to Linnaeus, and the different systems of classification based on artificial, natural and phylogenetic criteria. Explore the features, merits and demerits of each system, and the role of molecular homology and numerical taxonomy in resolving difficulties. Biological classification, also known as taxonomy , is the method by which scientists organize and categorize living organisms based on shared characteristics. Organisms are grouped into hierarchical categories such as domain, kingdom, phylum, class, order, family, genus, and species. Biological classification is the process of organising living organisms into logical hierarchical groups based on their similarities and differences . The main purpose of classification is to simplify the study of vast biodiversity. Taxonomy , in a broad sense the science of classification , but more strictly the classification of living and extinct organisms. The internationally accepted taxonomic nomenclature is the Linnaean system created by Swedish naturalist Carolus Linnaeus, who drew up rules for assigning names to plants and animals.
