A level used in classification. In the sequence of classification levels, a family forms part of an order and is subdivided into one or more genera [1] Many families end in -idae [2] [3] [4]
Scientists organize animal species into family groups that share certain structural or molecular characteristics [5]
Some families may encompass more than a hundred members, while other may only have one [5] (e.g. Tyrannidae or Peucedramidae, respectively).
An example
Take the members of the Picidae family, for example. They all have strong, sharp bills, strong claws and short legs [5].
See also
Monotypic
Polytypic
Subfamiliy
Biological classification
List of bird families
References
- ^ Frances, Peter; et al. (2007). Bird: The Definitive Visual Guide. Dorling Kindersley Inc. ISBN 1564582957.
- ^ Terres, John K. (1980). The Audubon Society Encyclopedia of North American Birds. Alfred A. Knopf, Inc. ISBN 0394466519.
- ^ Wright, Michael and Sparrow, Giles (2003). Expert Guide: Marine Life. Brown Books Ltd. ISBN 1897884907.
- ^ Zimmerman, Dale A.; et al. (1999). Birds of Kenya and Northern Tanzania. Princeton University Press. p. 432. ISBN 0691010226.
- ^ a b c Dunn, Jon L. and Alderfer, Jonathan (2011). National Geographic Guide to the Birds of North America. National Geographic Society. ISBN 1426200722.
| This article is part of Project Glossary, a All Birds project that aims to write comprehensive articles on each term related to animals. |
| This article is part of Project Taxonomy, a All Birds project that aims to write comprehensive articles on each taxonomic term. |
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