Order

Definition

An order is a taxonomic rank used in the classification of organisms, below the class and above the family. It helps to group species that share common attributes and evolutionary traits.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Orders are part of a hierarchical system of taxonomy developed by Carl Linnaeus.
2. There are multiple orders within each class, grouping families that have similar characteristics.
3. The name of an order typically ends in '-ales' in botany and '-iformes' in zoology.
4. Orders help scientists communicate about groups of organisms with shared features more efficiently.
5. Changes in the classification of orders can occur based on new genetic or molecular evidence.

Review Questions

• What taxonomic rank comes directly above an order?
• How do orders help in the classification and study of organisms?
• Give an example of how an order name might differ between botany and zoology.

Related terms

Class:

A taxonomic rank above order and below phylum, grouping together similar orders.

Family:

A taxonomic rank below order, grouping together genera that share common traits.

Genus:

A taxonomic rank below family, grouping species that are closely related.