Human taxonomy

Hominoid taxonomy 7

Naturalis Biodiversity Center - Martin Hoffman - Carl von Linné (Linnaeus) in his Lapland costume - painting

Human taxonomy is the classification of the human species within the broader context of biological taxonomy. It involves the hierarchical categorization of humans based on shared characteristics and genetic relationships. This system of classification is essential for understanding the evolutionary relationships between humans and other organisms.

Classification

The scientific classification of humans is as follows:

• Kingdom: Animalia
• Phylum: Chordata
• Class: Mammalia
• Order: Primates
• Family: Hominidae
• Genus: Homo
• Species: Homo sapiens

Kingdom: Animalia

Humans belong to the kingdom Animalia, which includes all multicellular organisms that are heterotrophic, meaning they obtain their food by consuming other organisms.

Phylum: Chordata

Within the kingdom Animalia, humans are classified under the phylum Chordata. This phylum is characterized by the presence of a notochord, a hollow dorsal nerve cord, pharyngeal slits, and a post-anal tail at some stage of development.

Class: Mammalia

Humans are part of the class Mammalia, which includes all mammals. Mammals are distinguished by the presence of mammary glands, which females use to feed their young, as well as hair or fur, and three middle ear bones.

Order: Primates

The order Primates includes humans, apes, monkeys, and prosimians. Primates are characterized by their large brains, forward-facing eyes, and highly flexible limbs and digits.

Family: Hominidae

Humans are members of the family Hominidae, also known as the great apes. This family includes orangutans, gorillas, chimpanzees, and humans. Members of this family are known for their larger brain sizes and more complex behaviors compared to other primates.

Genus: Homo

The genus Homo includes modern humans and their closest extinct relatives. This genus is characterized by an increased brain size and the use of tools.

Species: Homo sapiens

The species Homo sapiens is the only surviving species of the genus Homo. Modern humans are characterized by their complex language, culture, and ability to create and use complex tools.

Related Pages

• Evolution of human intelligence
• Human evolution
• Homo neanderthalensis
• Homo erectus
• Hominidae
• Primates

See Also

• Taxonomy (biology)
• Evolutionary biology
• Anthropology
• Paleontology

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