Question

What is alpha, beta and gamma taxonomy?

Answer 1

Taxonomy:

1. It is a theoretical study of classification, including its basics, principles, procedures, and rules.
2. According to Mayr (1982), “Taxonomy is the theory and practice of classification of living things.”
3. Three phases or levels of taxonomy are known as alpha, beta and gamma taxonomy.
4. The terms alpha, beta, and gamma in taxonomy were introduced by the British botanist William Bertram Turrill, who was honored as a Fellow of the Royal Society for this work.
5. These are three levels of taxonomy for identifying, classifying, and studying different plant species.
6. Alpha is a basic level and considers only some properties of the plant, but as the classification progresses to beta and gamma levels, more properties of the plant are considered and each plant species can be investigated in detail.

Alpha taxonomy:

1. The alpha (α) classification is an analytical step in which species are identified, characterized, and named.
2. When new species are discovered at this level, they are named after the Linnaean taxonomy of the binomial nomenclature.
3. The person who publishes his work first is given priority.
4. All kinds of issues are dealt with here.

Beta taxonomy:

1. Beta (β) classification refers to the placement of species in a natural system of hierarchical categories.
2. This is based on the evaluation of common structural features and numerous features that are easily observable.
3. Therefore, the beta classification method refers to the search for a natural classification system.
4. Therefore, each taxon has its own diagnostic function.

Gamma taxonomy:

1. The gamma (Ƴ) classification method refers to the analysis of intraspecific variability and the study of evolution.
2. Much attention has been paid to the causal interpretation of organic diversity, and the study of speciation.
3. But in reality, they overlap and integrate, making it very difficult to separate them.
4. Few groups of animals have classifications that extend to gamma levels (some vertebrates, especially some orders of insects such as birds, and butterflies). Otherwise, the work is still in alpha and beta levels in most groups.