Taxonomy is the naming, describing and classifying of organisms. It is the only way western scientists have of distinguishing between organisms. It has strict rules which all taxonomists follow when identifying, naming and describing species. Taxonomy is a universally recognised and understood tool used to define species of organisms.
Taxonomists group organisms with shared characteristics into species. Although species are defined as things that can interbreed, taxonomists study morphology and genetics to work out which organisms are the same species. Related species are grouped into a 'genus' (singular), and related 'genera' (plural) are grouped into a family. Related families are grouped into an 'order', and so on. Once taxonomists describe a species and work out how to distinguish that species from others, the results are published so that other people can also identify that species.
Taxonomy is important for conserving biodiversity. It enables us to identify which plants and animals live in an area and how widely distributed they are. This helps scientists select which areas to conserve.
Taxonomy helps us formulate methods for conserving biodiversity. These methods are effective when working in a area where the animals are not well known. Currently, we probably know less than 10% of the animals of Australia, but what we do know is that related animals tend to have similar ecological requirements. By studying the major groups of known animals in that area, taxonomists can find out about the environment and how to conserve it. Unfortunately, it will be hundreds to thousands of years before we know all of the plant and animal species in Australia.
Doug Hoese
Ichthyology
Australian Museum
Copyright © Australian Museum, 2003
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