Binomials

Binomials are two-part scientific names used to clearly identify a species of organism. Developed by Swedish botanist Carl von Linné in the 18th century, this system of nomenclature has become a scientific standard used throughout the world. Using just two Latin words, binomials both uniquely identify a species and provide useful information about its classification, such as its genus, family and order. Binomials are widely used by scientists, both in research and in everyday communication and are essential in the study of biogeography and evolutionary biology. They are also used to decrease confusion in scientific documentation, serving as a consistent universal tool to quickly and accurately identify organisms.