artificial classification The ordering of organisms into groups on the basis of non-evolutionary features (e.g. the grouping together of plants according to the number and situation of their stamens, styles, and stigmas rather than their evolutionary relationships). As knowledge of shared characteristics and relationships has grown, artificial systems have been superseded by systems of natural classification.

artificial classification The ordering of organisms into groups on the basis of non-evolutionary features (e.g. the grouping together of plants according to the number and situation of their stamens, styles, and stigmas rather than their evolutionary relationships). Compare NATURAL CLASSIFICATION.