What is the naming system scientists use to classify organisms?

Linnaeus,the Swedish naturalist 1707-1778, devised a binary,two part, naming system that has not been improved upon. It is based on Latin and avoids local names like 'forget me not' etc. which will be different in Another Country.

The first name,equivalent to our surname, describes the Generic or group name eg Quercus (the Oak tree).

The second,the specific name, or species is only given to one plant of the same genus eg Robor , the specific type .

example 2

gives the variety in a third name.

Campanula(lbell shaped)is generic

rotundiflora (round flower) specific

album ( white) varietal

This naming system Apples to all organisms and if a scientist discovers a new one he may use his surname in the description,eg Banksia named after Joseph Banks who sailed with Captain Cook to botany Bay Australia .