Question

The scientific name of the banyan tree is written as Ficus benghalensis L. Which of the following statements is correct regarding this?

• A. Letter L. signifies Latin language.
• B. The name should be written reverse with benghalensis preceding Ficus.
• C. Letter L. signifies the taxonomist Linnaeus.
• D. benghalensis is the generic name.

Answer 1

Answer: (C)

Letter L. signifies the taxonomist Linnaeus.

In binomial nomenclature, the first or generic word starts with a capital letter, while the second word or specific epithet starts with a small letter. The name of taxonomist appears after the specific epithet, i.e., at the end of the biological name and is written in abbreviated form, e.g., Ficus benghalensis L. indicates that this species was first described by Linnaeus.

So, the correct answer is option C.