Abstract Detail

Teaching Section

Alford, Mac [1], Long-Aragon, A. Nichole [2].

Use of higher-level names and classifications in current botany and plant systematics textbooks.

The use of higher-level names and classifications in botany and plant systematics textbooks published within the last 10 years was surveyed. The taxa above ordinal rank that are covered in the text and the names most commonly applied to them was determined. In addition, 20 professors representing seven languages other than English (Chinese, French, German, Japanese, Portuguese, Spanish, Russian) were surveyed for how higher-level classifications and names are used in their countries and in their courses. Surprisingly, even when textbooks use botanical names for the higher taxa, professors exclusively use common names, in both English and in several of the other languages. Names, when used, do not always incorporate the most recent understanding of phylogenetic relationships, and names used for some of the same taxa varied from textbook to textbook (e.g., Lycophyta vs. Lycopodiophyta; Equisetophyta vs. Sphenophyta). A table that shows the most commonly used names, the oldest names (although irrelevant at these ranks, but interesting), and the properly formed names using a generic root in Latin was compiled. A "standard" for teaching that recognizes monophyletic groups and appropriate names is then recommended, and the importance of higher-level names in teaching will be discussed.

1 - University Of Southern Mississippi, Department Of Biological Sciences, 118 COLLEGE DRIVE #5018, HATTIESBURG, MS, 39406-0001, USA
2 - University Of Southern Mississippi, Department Of Biological Sciences, 118 College Dr. #5018, Hattiesburg, MS, 39406, USA

Keywords:
botany
plant systematics
classification
textbooks
teaching.

Presentation Type: Oral Paper:Papers for Sections
Session: 19
Location: Cottonwoods North/Boise Centre
Date: Tuesday, July 29th, 2014
Time: 10:30 AM
Number: 19010
Abstract ID:854
Candidate for Awards:None