Why do taxonomists use latin names and not common names to name insects?

1 answer

Taxonomists use Latin names for insects (and all other organisms) because Latin is a dead language that is no longer evolving, so the names are stable and do not change over time. This standardized naming system allows for clear communication and consistency in identifying and classifying species across different languages and regions.

Common names, on the other hand, can vary greatly depending on the language, culture, and region, leading to confusion and potential misidentification of species. Additionally, common names often lack specificity and can refer to multiple species or even completely different organisms altogether. Latin names, also known as scientific names or binomial names, provide a universal system for categorizing and naming organisms based on their biological relationships, making it easier for taxonomists and researchers to accurately identify and study insects.