numerical taxonomy
- classification of organisms by a comparison of large numbers of observable characteristics that are given equal value instead of being weighted according to possible evolutionary significance.
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Origin of numerical taxonomy
First recorded in 1960–65
Also called numerical phenetics, taximetrics.
Dictionary.com Unabridged
Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2018
numerical taxonomy
[nōō-mĕr′ĭ-kəl]
- A method of taxonomy in which classification is made on the basis of a multivariate analysis of observable differences and similarities between taxonomic groups. Classifications based on numerical taxonomy reflect degrees of similarity rather than evolutionary relationships.
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The American Heritage® Science Dictionary
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