What is the classification level above genus in the taxonomic hierarchy?

In the taxonomic hierarchy, the classification level directly above genus is family. This classification system organizes living organisms into increasingly broader categories. The hierarchy progresses from specific to general: starting with species, then genus, followed by family, order, class, phylum, kingdom, and domain.

The role of family is crucial as it groups together related genera that share common characteristics, which helps biologists better understand evolutionary relationships and lineage among species. For instance, the genus Panthera, which includes lions and tigers, belongs to the family Felidae, which encompasses all felids.

While class, order, and other classifications come after family in the hierarchy, they do not represent the immediate category above genus. Understanding this structure is essential for proper classification and studying biological diversity.