Taxonomy

Non-standard taxonomic ranks

In large, dynamic groups like the grasshoppers and crickets (Orthoptera), researchers often need to describe evolutionary lineages that don’t fit neatly into the traditional hierarchy of Linnaean ranks. The Orthoptera Species File (OSF) uses certain non-standard ranks—such as superspecies or nanorder—as practical placeholders to name and organize additional phylogenetic levels that have emerged from modern analyses. These categories help preserve valuable information during times of taxonomic change. For example, when several species are combined (lumped) or divided (split) based on new molecular or morphological evidence, OSF can use these intermediate ranks to indicate relationships without discarding prior names or losing continuity. In this way, non-standard ranks serve as bridges between evolving classifications, allowing taxonomists to record hypotheses about lineage structure while maintaining data integrity across revisions.

Summary of standard vs. Non-standard ranks used by the Orthoptera Species File.

Rank	Status	Notes
Order	Standard	Widely recognized in all taxonomic codes.
Suborder	Standard	Common secondary division under order.
Infraorder	Semi-standard	Commonly used but not formally regulated by ICZN.
Nanorder	Non-standard	Informal; rarely used in formal classification.
Superfamily	Standard	Formally recognized in the ICZN “family-group.”
Family	Standard	Fully regulated by ICZN.
Supersubfamily	Non-standard	Informal; not recognized under ICZN.
Subfamily	Standard	Part of the family-group ranks.
Supertribe	Non-standard	Rarely used; not covered by ICZN.
Tribe	Standard	Family-group rank under ICZN.
Subtribe	Standard	Family-group rank under ICZN.
Infratribe	Non-standard	Informal; sometimes used in phylogenetic work.
Supergenus	Non-standard	Not recognized; occasionally used informally.
Genus	Standard	Fully regulated under ICZN.
Subgenus	Standard	Fully regulated under ICZN.
Supersuperspecies	Non-standard	Informal; not recognized below subspecies.
Superspecies	Non-standard	Informal; often used for species complexes.
Subsuperspecies	Non-standard	Informal; not regulated below subspecies.
Species	Standard	Fully regulated under ICZN.
Subspecies	Standard	Lowest rank regulated by ICZN.