Previous Year Question
Nomenclature is governed by certain universal rules. Which one of the following is contrary to the rules of nomenclature?
A.
A. The names are written in Latin and are italicised.
B.
B. When written by hand, the names are to be underlined.
C.
C. Biological names can be written in any language.
D.
D. The first word in a biological name represents the genus name and the second is a specific epithet.
Correct Answer: C
Detailed Solution
According to the universal rules of biological nomenclature:
Biological names are generally written in Latin or are Latinised, irrespective of their original language.
A biological name consists of two words. The first word represents the generic name, while the second represents the specific epithet.
When printed, both words are written in italics.
When handwritten, the generic name and specific epithet are underlined separately.
Therefore, the statement that biological names can be written in any language is contrary to the rules of nomenclature.