scientific name of plants

Types of scientific name of plants

The scientific names of plants are developed and given based on various factors, including the plant's morphology, geographical distribution, or any other unique characteristics. The types of scientific names include the following:

• Bionomial Nomenclature

  This is a Latin term meaning "two names." The system of scientific naming of plants was invented by Carl Linnaeus, a Swedish botanist. According to this system, every organism is given a name with two parts. The first part of the name denotes the genus, and the second part indicates the species. For example, in the name Homo sapiens, Homo represents the genus, and sapiens indicates the species of a human being. Similarly, in plants, the name Rosa rubiginosa represents the genus and species of a rose plant.

• Trinomial Nomenclature

  Trinomial nomenclature is also a Latin term meaning "three names." This system provides three names to organisms, which include the genus, species, and subspecies. For example, in the scientific name of the plant Quercus robur var. pedunculata, Quercus represents the genus, robur is the species, and var. pedunculata indicates the subspecies of the English oak tree.

• Synonym Scientific Names

  These scientific names of plants refer to the earlier published name given to a species or genus. For example, in the scientific name of Hibiscus rosa-sinensis, the synonym names include Hibiscus elatus, Hibiscus syriacus, and Hibiscus tiliaceus.

• Common Names

  These are the native names of species given by local people based on their appearance, use, and cultural significance. For instance, the common scientific name of the Helianthus annuus plant is sunflower, and for the Rosa rubiginosa, it is rose.

How to choose scientific name of plants

When choosing a scientific name for a plant, one must consider several factors to ensure it is accurate, descriptive, and adher to the principles of nomenclature. Here are some critical considerations:

• Taxonomic classification

  Before naming a plant, it's essential to understand its place in the taxonomic hierarchy. This includes determining its kingdom, phylum, class, order, family, genus, and species. An accurate classification ensures the name reflects the plant's relationship to other organisms.

• Distinguishing features

  Names should be based on the plant's distinguishing characteristics, such as its morphology, color, structure, or unique features. These attributes should be identified through careful observation and study.

• Geographical distribution

  Some plant names come from certain regions or habitats where the plant is found. Considering the plant's natural range and location can help inform its scientific name.

• Cultural and historical significance

  Cultural and historical background can influence the naming of a scientific name. This includes traditional uses, historical events, or connections to specific communities. A name reflecting the plant's cultural or historical context can honor its heritage and promote awareness of its significance.

• Conservation status

  The conservation status of a plant species should be considered when naming it. Endangered or threatened species may require names highlighting their rarity or need for conservation efforts. This can raise awareness of their plight and promote efforts to protect them.

• Compliance with nomenclatural rules

  When naming a plant, it is essential to follow the rules and regulations set by the International Code of Nomenclature for Algae, Fungi, and Plants. This includes ensuring the name is unique, not in violation of any existing names, and adheres to the guidelines for naming conventions.

• Publications and documentation

  Accurate documentation and publication are crucial for establishing a new scientific name. This includes describing the plant in a peer-reviewed journal, creating a formal nomenclatural record, and ensuring the name is recognized by the global scientific community. Proper documentation helps ensure the name's validity and acceptance.

Function, feature and design of scientific name of plants

Function

• Identification: The primary role of a plant's scientific name is to identify and classify it distinctly. The naming system developed by Linnaeus, known as binomial nomenclature, assigns each plant species a two-part Latin name that consists of the genus and species name. For example, the scientific name of the Rubber Plant is Ficus elastica. This helps avoid confusion stemming from regional or common names, which can differ across countries and cultures.
• Classification: Scientific names help organize plants into a hierarchical system that shows their relationships. This classification is done at various levels, starting from the kingdom down to the species, and encompasses groups like phylum, class, order, family, and genus. For instance, the Bamboo plant, classified under the genus Bambusa, belongs to the family Poaceae, which is part of the class Monocotyledons.
• Documentation: Scientific names play a crucial role in documenting and cataloging the vast diversity of plant species. This is vital for conservation, research, and understanding ecosystems. The Fern plant's scientific name is Polypodiopsida, and it belongs to the phylum Pteridotaen. Such documentation helps track species distribution, changes over time, and their status.

Feature

• Universality: One of the main features of scientific names is their universal application. Latin is the language used for these names, which is now dead, meaning that they remain constant across different languages and cultures. This ensures that a particular plant species is recognized and referred to similarly worldwide, promoting clear communication among scientists and researchers globally.
• Stability: Scientific names are stable once assigned, providing consistency that common names lack, which can change and vary regionally. The International Code of Nomenclature for Algae, Fungi, and Plants (ICN) establishes rules for naming, ensuring that once a name is given priority, it remains unchanged to keep things steady. For example, the scientific name for the Coconut tree is Cocos nucifera, and it has remained the same despite various common names it has acquired over the years.
• Descriptive: Many scientific names are descriptive, often reflecting characteristics of the plant, its habitat, or the person who discovered it. For instance, the scientific name for the Rose plant is Rosa, derived from the Latin term for the flower, which is Rosaceae. Such descriptive aspects provide additional information about the species and its features.

Design

• Binomial Nomenclature: The two-part design of the scientific name, known as binomial nomenclature, was developed by Carl Linnaeus. The first part of the name is the genus name, which is written with a capital letter and indicates the group to which the species belongs. The second part is the species name, which is specific to that particular plant and is written in lowercase. For example, in the scientific name of the Rubber Plant, Ficus elastica, Ficus is the genus name, and elastica is the species name.
• Italicization: Scientific names are usually written in Latin and are generally italicized when printed. The genus name is italicized and written in uppercase, while the species name is also italicized but written in lowercase. This helps distinguish the scientific name from the rest of the text and indicates that it is a formal classification.

Safety and quality of scientific name of plants

The safety and quality of plant labels depend on what the label is made of, its safety, and quality. Below are some considerations one might think about when it comes to safety and quality of plant labels.

• Label Materials

  Plant labels are often made from materials that are safe for use in gardens and around plants. For instance, durable materials like metal, plastic, or wood are commonly used. These materials can be treated to resist weather conditions, hence improving their durability.

• Waterproofing

  Many labels are designed to be waterproof or are made from waterproof materials. This ensures that they do not disintegrate or become unreadable when exposed to water or high humidity.

• Fade Resistance

  Fade resistance ensures that the writing or printing on the label does not fade quickly when exposed to sunlight. This helps maintain the readability of the label over time.

• Non-Toxic Inks and Materials

  It is important for the inks and other materials used in making plant labels to be non-toxic. This ensures that they do not harm the plants, soil, or any other organisms they come into contact with.

• Environmental Considerations

  Some plant labels are made from recycled materials or are biodegradable. This makes them more environmentally friendly options.

• Quality

  The quality of a plant label can be determined by its durability, clarity, and ease of use. For instance, labels that are resistant to tearing, fading, and weathering are of better quality. Additionally, labels that come with features such as easy-to-read fonts, clear graphics, and writable surfaces also make quality labels.

• Compliance with Regulations

  Plant labels should comply with any local regulations or guidelines pertaining to labeling and signage. This is to ensure that they meet safety and quality standards.

Q & A

What are the benefits of knowing a plant's scientific name?

Knowing a plant's scientific name can help one avoid confusion, find correct information, and identify the plants accurately. It also helps to understand the plant's family and genus relationships, which can provide insight into its characteristics and requirements.

Are common names of plants reliable?

Unfortunately, common names of plants are not reliable since they can vary by region, language, and culture. They can also be misleading as one plant can have multiple common names, and different plants can share the same common name. This can lead to identification and information errors.

How do scientists name new plant species?

Scientists name new plant species using a process called nomenclature that is governed by the International Code of Botanical Nomenclature (ICBN). This involves giving the plant a unique, Latin-based binomial name that consists of a genus name and a specific epithet. The name must be published in a formal scientific description, and it must be accepted by the global community of botanists.