linnaean system
The Linnaean system of classification consists of a hierarchy of groupings, called taxa singular, taxon . Taxa range from the kingdom to the species see Figure below . The kingdom is the largest and most inclusive grouping. It consists of organisms that share just a few basic similarities. Examples are the plant and animal kingdoms. The species is the smallest and most exclusive grouping. It consists of organisms that are similar enough to produce fertile offspring together. Closely related species are grouped together in a genus.