Binomial nomenclature, also known as the scientific naming of species, is a standardized system used in taxonomy to uniquely identify and classify living organisms.
Some rules
Naming format
Genus + Specific epithet. E.g.:
- Hypomesus nipponensis (or H. nipponensis)
- Daphnia spp.
- Bosmina spp.
Writing conventions
- Italicize
- Genus name capitalized
- Specific epithet lowercase
Abbreviations
- sp. (species) - singular, refers to a specific species within the genus, but the exact species is not specified
- spp. (species pluralis) - plural, refers to multiple species within the genus, but the exact species are not specified