Taxonomic Rank

Taxonomic Rank

In biological classification, rank is the level (the relative position) in a taxonomic hierarchy. Examples of taxonomic ranks are species, genus, family, and class.

Each rank subsumes under it a number of less general categories. The rank of species, and specification of the genus to which the species belongs is basic, which means that it may not be necessary to specify ranks other than these.

The International Code of Zoological Nomenclature defines rank as:

The level, for nomenclatural purposes, of a taxon in a taxonomic hierarchy (e.g. all families are for nomenclatural purposes at the same rank, which lies between superfamily and subfamily)

Read more about Taxonomic Rank:  Main Ranks, Ranks in Zoology, Ranks in Botany, Examples, Terminations of Names, All Ranks, Significance and Problems, See Also

Famous quotes containing the word rank:

    A private should preserve a respectful attitude toward his superiors, and should seldom or never proceed so far as to offer suggestions to his general in the field. If the battle is not being conducted to suit him, it is better for him to resign. By the etiquette of war, it is permitted to none below the rank of newspaper correspondent to dictate to the general in the field.
    Mark Twain [Samuel Langhorne Clemens] (1835–1910)