How species are named
The names we use for plants and animals help us classify and communicate about the natural world. There are two main systems for naming organisms: scientific names and common names.
Even if you aren’t a scientist, you are likely familiar with scientific names such as Tyrannosaurus rex or Homo sapiens. These unique two-part names, often derived from Latin, follow specific naming conventions that aspire to provide a universal way for scientists to identify and talk about species, even across different languages.
Unlike scientific names, common names can vary widely between regions and languages. They develop more naturally within different cultures and communities, making it easier for non-experts to talk about species without needing to learn complex and difficult terms.
What prompts a change to a species’ common name?
Sometimes, common names can be confusing, inaccurate or offensive. For example, some names link a species to an incorrect place of origin, or the same common name can be used for multiple species, leading to confusion. Efforts to standardize and improve common names ensure that people can clearly identify and discuss species in their region.
Common names that reference specific places, such as “Asian” or “Japanese,” can unintentionally reinforce negative associations, particularly when applied to invasive species that are targeted for control or eradication. Invasive species professionals move to improve names when they become aware of negative impacts a species name may have on people.
For example, the Entomological Society of America (ESA) changed the name of Lymantria dispar to “spongy moth” as part of their Better Common Names Project. The old name contained a racial slur often applied to the Romani people, while the new name highlights the insect’s sponge-like egg masses. The ESA spent over a year removing the spongy moth’s old name, working to create a better new common name and launching an approach to get the new name into broad circulation.
Extension’s contribution to improving common names
Improving common names is an ongoing process, and University of Minnesota Extension regularly contributes to the study, development, and practical application of common names.
Extension’s Invasive Species Community of Practice has led work to create a system of renaming guidelines that we use in consultation with local regulatory agencies. Some key principles of the guidelines include:
- Promoting the use of scientific names where practical.
- Evaluating other common names in use currently and historically.
- Avoiding place-based and potentially derogatory names.
- Avoiding common names that create confusion with other species.
- Considering new common names that focus on descriptive features, host species, or characteristic symptoms.
To ensure our guidelines are effective, we gathered input from cultural experts and professionals in invasive species management. Their insights helped refine our approach so that the names we propose are practical, widely accepted and effective for public communication.
Our guidelines are shared with professionals across the country who work with invasive species. Many have found them helpful in selecting names that improve understanding and public awareness.
Extension has worked with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources and Department of Agriculture on a list of updated common names for many different species, including plants, mollusks, and worms. We update these names on our website and in our materials and share the new names with state agencies and others to update in accordance with their policies.
Adoption takes time, but progress is being made as these names gain recognition in regulatory and public discussions. Like the ESA, many scientific organizations also have their own approach or governing body that oversees naming conventions for their species of interest.
Updating invasive species names is an important step in improving scientific communication. Extension is proud to be part of this effort. By working with national organizations and experts in the field, we help create accurate, practical, and useful names for everyone.
We encourage professionals and the public to implement updated common names when discussing invasive species and support efforts to improve clarity in scientific communication.
Reviewed in 2025