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How to Learn Taxonomy

Taxonomy is the scientific study of categorising living organisms. The current classification system used by taxonomists is known as the Linnaean taxonomic system, named after Carolus Linnaeus, a Swedish biologist. The study of taxonomy is broken into seven basic categories known as "taxa" and include, in order, the kingdom, phylum, class, order, family, genus and species. Kingdom (such as the animal kingdom) is the broadest category of taxa, with the species taxa the most specific form of classification.

Instructions

- 1
  Start at the top. Examine the living organisms present in the Kingdom classifications. Work your way down through each subdivision by breaking down phyla into classes, classes into orders until you reach the species category.
- 2
  Learn the distinct characteristics of organisms at each level of taxonomy. Knowing how to differentiate between organisms at the higher levels will make learning the more specific classes of taxa, such as genus and species, easier.
- 3
  Specialise in a particular area of life once you have a broad understanding of the seven taxa levels. Animal life may be of special interest to you at the higher taxa levels. As you work your way down, decide what categories of animal in particular interest. Choosing a speciality means you can focus your attention in one area once you have learned the basics.
- 4
  Research your chosen area of interest. Read taxonomic literature relating to your specific field. Contact taxonomists at universities or research institutes to see if they can give you further guidance in developing your skills. They may be able to take you on as a researcher or report writer for an up and coming project.
- 5
  Build your own taxonomic collection. Visit parks and identify plant or animal organisms, be it leaves or pond algae, that are within your realm of speciality. Keep comprehensive notes on the climate and location where you made your finds. This may help you identify the best times for future research.
- 6
  Contact museums and universities and ask to view taxonomic collections relevant to your field. Request access to taxonomic papers to enhance your knowledge of your specific field. Offer to donate some of your own specimens to their museum and university collections too. Institutes may be more open to allowing you access to reports if you demonstrate if you have something to offer in return.
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  Volunteer at museums and universities to participate to help catalogue existing taxonomic papers. This will provide you with valuable access to the work of experienced taxonomists. Enquire about any field research projects that you can participate in. These projects are usually run by experienced taxonomists who can improve your knowledge base and research skills.

Animals & Science