Question

Nomenclature is governed by certain universal rules. Which one of the following is contrary to the rules of nomenclature?

• A. The first word in a biological name represents the genus name and the second is a specific epithet.
• B. Biological names can be written in any language.
• C. The names are written in Latin and are italicised.
• D. When written by hand, the names are to be underlined.

Answer 1

Answer: (B)

According to binomial nomenclature, any species has two names generic and species name. Following are some of the major guidelines for the scientific naming of plants and animals.

1. Every scientific name should have words either in Latin or be Latinized (i.e., follow Latin grammar).

2. The first word refers to the name of the genus and the second word to the name of the species.

3. The name of the genus should start with a capital letter and the name of the species with a small letter.

4. Both the names should be printed in italics or else they should be underlined separately. For example, Felis leo or Felis leo.

So, the correct answer is 'Biological names can be written in any language.'