In the binomial system of nomenclature, which term is always written in lowercase letters?
a. Kingdom
b. Domain
c. Genus
d. Specific epithet

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that the binomial system of nomenclature assigns a two-part scientific name to each species, consisting of the genus name followed by the specific epithet.
2. Recall the formatting rules: the genus name is always capitalized, while the specific epithet is always written in lowercase letters.
3. Review the options given: kingdom and domain are higher taxonomic ranks and are not part of the binomial name; genus is capitalized; specific epithet is lowercase.
4. Identify that the term always written in lowercase letters in the binomial system is the specific epithet.
5. Conclude that the correct answer corresponds to the specific epithet, which follows the genus name and is always lowercase.

Key Concepts

Binomial Nomenclature

Binomial nomenclature is a formal system of naming species using two terms: the genus name and the specific epithet. This system, developed by Carl Linnaeus, ensures each species has a unique, universally accepted scientific name.

Genus Name Formatting

In binomial nomenclature, the genus name is always capitalized and italicized (or underlined when handwritten). It represents the broader group to which the species belongs and is the first part of the species name.

Specific Epithet Formatting

The specific epithet is the second part of a species' scientific name and is always written in lowercase letters. It identifies the species within the genus and is italicized along with the genus name.