A taxonomic rank below order and above genus, grouping closely related organisms that share similar characteristics and recent common ancestry. Families often represent groups with recognizable similarities in appearance or behavior.
From Latin 'familia' meaning 'household,' adopted into biological taxonomy because it represents a 'household' of closely related organisms. The term naturally conveys the idea of close relationships within the taxonomic hierarchy.
The cat family (Felidae) includes everything from your house cat to lions and tigers - they all share retractable claws, excellent night vision, and that distinctive feline grace! It's remarkable how family traits persist across such different sizes.
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