Scientific Names and Common Names

The video tutorial explains the differences between common and scientific names for plants. It highlights the advantages and disadvantages of each naming system, using examples like the coast live oak. Common names are easy to learn but can be confusing due to multiple names for the same species. Scientific names, based on binomial nomenclature, provide a universal naming system but are harder to learn. The video recommends learning both naming systems for effective communication and documentation.

What are the two main types of plant names discussed in the video?

• Common and botanical names

• Traditional and modern names

• Local and international names

• Regional and global names

What does the 'coast' in 'coast live oak' indicate?

• The tree is found in desert regions

• The tree is found in urban regions

• The tree is found in coastal regions

• The tree is found in mountainous regions

Why might common names be confusing?

• They are not used internationally

• They are difficult to pronounce

• They can refer to multiple species

• They are always in Latin

What is the structure of a scientific name?

• It has three parts: genus, species, and family

• It has two parts: genus and specific epithet

• It has one part: the genus

• It has four parts: genus, species, family, and order

What is the main advantage of using scientific names?

• They are universally recognized

• They are easier to remember

• They are shorter than common names

• They are more descriptive

What is a potential downside of using scientific names?

• They are not descriptive

• They are always in English

• They can change if a plant is reclassified

• They are not recognized internationally

Why might common names suggest incorrect relationships?

• They are based on appearance rather than genetics

• They are always in Latin

• They are used only locally

• They are not descriptive

What is the scientific name of the valley oak?

• Quercus robur

• Quercus rubra

• Quercus alba

• Quercus lobata

What is recommended when writing an arborist report?

• Use only common names

• Use only scientific names

• Use both common and scientific names

• Use neither common nor scientific names

What is a challenge when using scientific names in nurseries?

• Nurseries often use outdated synonyms

• Scientific names are not recognized

• Scientific names are too long

• Nurseries prefer common names