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The rank subordinate to species in the taxonomic hierarchy. The category has been variously defined, a widely accepted definition being a population of several biotypes forming a more or less regional form of a species. The term subspecies is used when two or more populations are separated in some way (e.g. ecologically or morphologically) throughout their range. However they are not usually genetically isolated. There can therefore be a continuous intergrading of subspecies, thus making their delimitation more arbitrary than that of the species. Generally, if 90% or more of a group of infraspecific individuals are recognizably distinct from another similar group, then each may be ranked as subspecies. This is often referred to as the '90% rule'. Subspecies may share many similar attributes but retain essential differences, thus indicating that they are merely regional representatives of one species, sharing a common origin. The abbreviation 'subsp.' or 'ssp.' is used to indicate a subspecies, e.g. Daucus carota subsp. gummifer. The name of the subspecies that includes the type is always the same as the specific epithet.
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