Understanding Suborders in Biological Classification

In the context of biological classification, a suborder is a taxonomic rank that is below an order and above a family. It is used to group organisms that are closely related and share similar characteristics.

For example, in the classification of mammals, the suborder Feliformia includes all cats (such as lions, tigers, and domestic cats) and hyenas. The suborder Caniformia includes all dogs, bears, and seals.

In the classification of birds, a suborder is called an "altum". For example, the suborder Galbulimorphae includes all bulbuls and starlings, while the suborder Passerimorphae includes all songbirds.

Suborders are used to group organisms that share similar characteristics and evolutionary relationships, but may not be closely related enough to be classified within the same order. They are often further divided into families, genera, and species.