Alpha taxonomy

Definition

The discipline of describing, identifying, and naming species based on their physical characteristics.

Etymology

From Greek 'alpha' meaning 'first' and 'taxonomy', the study of classification.

Example

The alpha taxonomy was used for many years to classify insects based on wing shape or body size.

Related Terms

• Morphology
• Classification
• Systematics

Usage Notes

Alpha taxonomy is considered a simplistic approach and has been largely superseded by phylogenetic methods.