Question Details

Binomial Nomenclature means

Options

A

two names; one given by zoologist, other by botanist

B

one scientific name consisting of a generic name and a specific epithet

C

two names; one french, other latinized

D

two names; one scientific, other local

Correct Answer :

one scientific name consisting of a generic name and a specific epithet

Solution :

The correct option is: one scientific name consisting of a generic name and a specific epithet.

Detailed Explanation:

1. Definition of Binomial Nomenclature:
Binomial nomenclature is a standardized, scientific system of naming living organisms. It was introduced and popularized by the Swedish botanist Carl Linnaeus to replace long, descriptive, and confusing common names with a unique, universally accepted system of identification.

2. The Two-Part Naming Structure:
The word "binomial" translates to "two names" or "two parts." Under this taxonomic naming system, every species is assigned a single scientific name that consists of two distinct components:
Generic Name (Genus): The first word indicates the genus to which the organism belongs. The first letter of the generic name is always capitalized (e.g., Homo).
Specific Epithet (Species): The second word identifies the specific species within the genus. It is written entirely in lowercase letters (e.g., sapiens).

3. Illustrative Example:
In the scientific name for humans, Homo sapiens:
Homo represents the generic name.
sapiens represents the specific epithet.

4. Conclusion:
This structure ensures that each organism has a single, unique, two-part scientific name, which directly corresponds to the option: one scientific name consisting of a generic name and a specific epithet.

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