Subfamily

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Subfamily is a rank in the biological classification system, or taxonomy, that falls between family and genus. It is used in the naming of organisms and is denoted by the suffix "-inae" in animal taxonomy and "-oideae" in plant taxonomy.

Overview[edit | edit source]

A subfamily is a secondary taxonomic rank below the rank of family. It is used when a family is large and diverse enough to be subdivided into multiple genera that share common characteristics. The naming of a subfamily follows specific rules set out by the International Code of Nomenclature for algae, fungi, and plants and the International Code of Zoological Nomenclature.

Usage in Zoology[edit | edit source]

In zoology, the suffix "-inae" is added to the stem of the family name to form the subfamily name. For example, the subfamily Pantherinae is a part of the family Felidae.

Usage in Botany[edit | edit source]

In botany, the suffix "-oideae" is added to the stem of the family name to form the subfamily name. For example, the subfamily Rosoideae is a part of the family Rosaceae.

See also[edit | edit source]

Subfamily Resources
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