What type of language are scientific names primarily written in?

Scientific names are primarily written in Latin, which is the correct answer. The use of Latin in scientific nomenclature originates from the need for a universal language to classify and name organisms consistently across different regions and languages. Latin was traditionally the language of scholars and scientists, which helped ensure that the names were understood globally, regardless of the native languages of those studying or working with the organisms.

In the binomial nomenclature system, established by Carl Linnaeus, every species is assigned a two-part name: the genus name and the species identifier, both of which are typically derived from Latin or are Latinized forms. This practice helps avoid confusion that may arise from common names, which can vary widely from place to place.

While Greek has historically contributed to scientific vocabulary, particularly in naming certain biological concepts, the formal classification and naming of species predominantly use Latin. English and German are modern languages that may be used in scientific communication but do not play a role in the formal naming of species in the same way Latin does.