What did Carl Linnaeus contribute to the field of biology?

Carl Linnaeus is best known for establishing the taxonomic system and binomial nomenclature, which are foundational concepts in the field of biology. His system classified living organisms into hierarchical categories based on shared characteristics. This method organized biodiversity in a systematic way, allowing for easier identification and study of species. The use of binomial nomenclature, in which each species is assigned a two-part Latin name consisting of its genus and species, remains the standard in scientific naming to this day. This systematic approach laid the groundwork for modern taxonomy and has greatly influenced biological classification.

The other options represent significant ideas in biology but are not contributions made by Linnaeus. The theory of evolution was later developed by Charles Darwin, while the theory of natural selection, which explains the process of evolution, also stems from Darwin's work. The concept of catastrophism, which refers to the idea that the Earth's geology and biological history have been shaped by sudden, short-lived events, was associated with other scientists like Georges Cuvier and is not attributed to Linnaeus. Thus, Linnaeus's unique contribution of a structured approach to classification and naming is what sets him apart in the history of biology.