Question

Which type of taxon consists of organisms with the greatest similarity? a. kingdom b. class c. order d. family e. genus

Short answer

The taxon that consists of organisms with the greatest similarity is e. genus.

Step-by-step solution

Understanding Biological Taxonomy

The system of classifying organisms is known as taxonomy and it follows a hierarchy that starts from the kingdom and ends at the species. The hierarchy is as follows: kingdom, phylum, class, order, family, genus, and species.

Identifying the Taxon with the Most Similar Organisms

The hierarchy in taxonomy functions in such a way that the similarity between organisms increases as we move from kingdom to species. Therefore, the taxon with the greatest similarity amongst the organisms belonging to it would be at the bottom-most level of the hierarchy.

Comparing the Given Options with the Taxonomy Hierarchy

Compare the given options (kingdom, class, order, family, genus) with the taxonomy hierarchy and choose the taxon that is most specific, i.e., closest to species in the hierarchy.

Key concepts

Taxon Similarity

When we talk about taxon similarity, we refer to the degree of resemblance between organisms within a taxonomic group. Taxonomic classification is designed in such a way that the more specific the category, the more characteristics the organisms within that category share. This approach helps scientists and students alike understand and visualize the intricate relationships that life shares across the planet.

In the biological taxonomy hierarchy, as one moves from higher to lower levels—starting from kingdoms and progressing towards species—the organisms grouped together share more and more traits. This means that a genus comprises species that are very similar to each other, more so than a family or order would comprise. This is because each descending rank is defined by additional traits that further narrow the population, ensuring that only the most closely related species are grouped under the same genus.

Classification of Organisms

The classification of organisms is an organized system of grouping living things. It's essential for scientists to categorize and identify organisms so that they can study and understand the diversity of life on Earth. This system, also known as biological classification or taxonomy, was originally developed by Carl Linnaeus in the 18th century and has evolved over time.

Organisms are primarily sorted into broad categories known as kingdoms, and these kingdoms are further subdivided into progressively narrower groups—phyla, classes, orders, families, genera, and species. The basis for the classification relies on shared features which can include structural similarities, genetic relationships, and evolutionary connections, all dictating how organisms are recognized and placed into their respective groups. Such systematic organization not only facilitates scientific communication but also aids in predicting characteristics shared by organisms in a group.

Taxonomy Levels

The concept of taxonomy levels is central to biological classification. At each level of the hierarchy, from the broad kingdom to the specific species, organisms are grouped by shared characteristics. The major levels, often referred to as the 'ranks' of taxonomy, are kingdom, phylum, class, order, family, genus, and species. This hierarchical system forms the backbone of taxonomy and is universally adopted in biological sciences.

To envision the hierarchy more clearly, think of it as a pyramid where the base represents the kingdom, the broadest category with the least similarity among its members, and the apex represents the species, which contains organisms that are virtually identical in many characteristics. The species is the most precise classification, and it is here where we find the organisms that can interbreed and produce viable offspring, highlighting their close genetic relatedness.