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U s i n g t h e I n d e x e s
Conventions
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The Organism Index is arranged hierarchically from broad to narrow groupings in the
order of the Major Taxonomic Classifications list. This list appears on the second page
of the Organism Index and in Appendix B of this manual. Within a major category
(ARTHROPODA), more specific groupings (Chelicerata) are generally listed.
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Genus species names are easily identified since they appear in italics.
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Each entry is followed by Major Concepts and keywords where they apply. The first
Major Concept is the primary Major Concept which gives the most relevant descrip-
tion of the broad focus of the document. Subsequent Major Concepts and keywords
provide additional information.
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An (N) adjacent to a reference number indicates that new taxonomic information is
provided. Fossil taxa are indicated with a () adjacent to the appropriate reference
numbers.
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A question mark (?) following a species name, indicates uncertain identification.
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All compound names are joined by hyphens.
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Some organisms are indexed to more than one taxonomic category; for example,
flagellate algae are indexed under both Algae and Protozoa.
How do I use the Organism Index?
1. Consult the Major Taxonomic Classification or list of Hierarchical Headings used in
the Organism Index list in each issue (or Appendix B).
Tip: If you are looking for a genus species name, you can either find it under its higher
taxonomic name in the Organism Index, or consult the Subject Index which lists key
terms (including common and scientific names).
If you do not know the scientific name of an organism, look in the Subject Index first,
and the common or genus species name will provide the higher taxonomic name you
can use when looking in the Organism Index.
Prior to 1993, the Hierarchical Headings list was available only in the first issue
of each volume.
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2. Verify the organism's name. Consider variant spellings and alternate names. Use an
additional reference if necessary.
3. Find appropriate higher and lower taxonomic names.
4. Note Major Concepts and/or keywords.
5. Note indicators for new taxonomic or fossil information.
6. Consult the individual entries within an issue or volume using reference numbers.
Tip: To find all documents discussing a specific organism, also check the Subject Index
for the common name.
