Biological classification

Biological classification [ Taxonomy]
or Scientific classification

Dictionary of botanic terminology - index of names


	Biological classification or scientific classification describe how biologists group and categorize extinct and living species of organisms in an ordered system according to their presumed relationships or origin.

Modern classification has its roots in the system of Linnaean classification, that grouped species according to shared physical characteristic, but in recent times other criteria have also been used and has driven many revisions. In particular the modern classification take also in consideration the Darwinian principle of common descent and the Molecular systematics, which uses genomic DNA analysis. Scientific classification belongs to the science of taxonomy.

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Holdfast roots [ Botany ]
Dictionary of botanic terminology - index of names

Some species of climbing plants develop holdfast roots which help to support the vines on trees, walls, and rocks. By forcing their way into minute pores and crevices, they hold the plant firmly in place.

Climbing plants, like the poison ivy (Toxicodendron radicans), Boston ivy (Parthenocissus tricuspidata), and trumpet creeper (Campsis radicans), develop holdfast roots which help to support the vines on trees, walls, and rocks. By forcing their way into minute pores and crevices, they hold the plant firmly in place. Usually the Holdfast roots die at the end of the first season, but in some species they are perennial. In the tropics some of the large climbing plants have hold-fast roots by which they attach themselves, and long, cord-like roots that extend downward through the air and may lengthen and branch for several years until they strike the soil and become absorbent roots.

Major references and further lectures:
1) E. N. Transeau “General Botany” Discovery Publishing House, 1994