Family

Definition

A family is a taxonomic rank in the biological classification system that groups related organisms. It falls between the ranks of order and genus.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Families contain one or more genera (plural of genus).
2. The scientific name of a family typically ends in '-idae' for animals and '-aceae' for plants.
3. Families are used to organize species with common characteristics and evolutionary traits.
4. Carl Linnaeus, the father of modern taxonomy, developed the hierarchical system including families.
5. There can be hierarchical subcategories within families, such as subfamilies.

Review Questions

• What taxonomic rank falls between order and genus?
• How do scientific names of animal families usually end?
• Who is credited with developing the taxonomic hierarchy that includes families?

Related terms

Order:

A higher taxonomic rank above family that groups together related families.

Genus:

A lower taxonomic rank below family that groups together species sharing common attributes.

Species: The most specific taxonomic rank, representing individual organisms capable of interbreeding.