Question

What are the scientific names of dog, cat, buffalo, fox, cow and ox?

Answer 1

Hint: The method of naming the organisms scientifically is known as binomial nomenclature. It was given by Carolus Linneaus. It is the method of naming the organisms which are used by all the scientists worldwide.

Complete answer:
The binomial nomenclature is the system of naming the organism. It is a formal system of naming which comprises of two words-
• The first word is the genus to which the organism belongs.
• Specific name represents the name of the species.

- These words are derived from the Latin and have specific meanings.
- The IUCN governs the naming of the organisms according to the code of rules. The naming of animals is governed by ICZN and that of microorganisms is governed by ICNafp.
- The rule of writing the biological name is the first name or the genus name should begin with a capital letter and the specific name should begin with a small letter. The scientific name should be written in italics.

Let us discuss few examples of the scientific names-
• Dog – Canis familiaris
• Cat – Felis catus
• Buffalo – Bubalus bubalis
• Fox – Vulpes vulpes
• Cow – Bos taurus
• Ox – Bos taurus
The scientific name of cow and ox are similar because they are the same species but differ in gender.

Note: The properties of binomial nomenclature are-
- Each organism is given a unique name.
- These names are universal and are used throughout the word by the scientific community.
- The names are so designed that it gives us the information of the genus to which it belongs. This helps in easy characterisation of the organism.