The scientific classification of living organisms based on shared characteristics is known as taxonomic classification. This system organizes life into hierarchical categories such as Domain, Kingdom, Phylum, Class, Order, Family, Genus, and Species. This classification helps scientists communicate effectively about different organisms, their relationships, and evolutionary history. By grouping organisms according to common traits, taxonomy aids in the study of biodiversity, facilitating research in fields like ecology, conservation, and evolutionary biology. Understanding taxonomy is essential to appreciating the complexity of life on Earth.