Question

The number of currently described species on the planet is about ________. a. 17,000 b. 150,000 c. 1.5 million d. 10 million

Short answer

The correct answer is (c) 1.5 million, as it matches the latest scientific estimates for the number of currently described species on Earth.

Step-by-step solution

Identify the correct option

To find the correct option regarding the number of currently described species on Earth, we need to be aware of the latest scientific estimates. According to various studies and sources, the correct answer for the number of currently described species on the planet is around 1.5 million. Step 2: Select the correct answer

Select the correct answer

From the list of options provided, the one that matches the value of 1.5 million is option (c). So, the correct answer to this exercise is: (c) 1.5 million

Key concepts

Species Diversity

Species diversity refers to the variety and abundance of different species within a particular region or ecosystem. It is a key component of biodiversity, highlighting the multitude of life forms present. This diversity spans across:

• Animals - From the small, like insects, to the large, such as whales.
• Plants - Including flowering plants, trees, and algae.
• Microorganisms - Like bacteria and fungi, often unseen but crucial for ecosystem balance.

The richness of species diversity ensures ecosystem resilience, as each species plays a unique role in the web of life. For instance, predators help control pest populations, while plants provide oxygen and food.
Understanding and protecting species diversity not only preserves ecosystems but ensures the availability of resources like food, medicine, and clean water for future generations.

Taxonomy

Taxonomy is the science of naming, defining, and classifying organisms into groups based on shared characteristics. It provides a universal language for scientists around the world.

• Classification Levels - Organisms are grouped in a hierarchy, starting from kingdom down to species. The primary levels include: Kingdom, Phylum, Class, Order, Family, Genus, and Species.
• Binomial Nomenclature - A systematic approach to naming species, using two names: genus and species, like Homo sapiens for humans.

Taxonomy plays a crucial role in understanding the evolutionary relationships between organisms and can help identify new species, thereby enhancing our knowledge of species diversity. It also helps in organizing and categorizing the vast amount of information about the multitude of species present on Earth.

Scientific Estimates

Scientific estimates are educated guesses or predictions made by scientists to approximate the number of species on Earth. They use data from field research, historical records, and biogeographical studies. Through these estimates, scientists aim to represent the true size and complexity of Earth's biosphere.
Currently, it is estimated that about 1.5 million species have been described and documented. However, this is just a fraction of what is believed to exist, as many remote areas and deep oceanic zones remain under-explored.

• Undiscovered Species - Predictions suggest that there may be anywhere from 5 million to over 10 million species yet to be discovered and described.
• Technological Advancement - Tools like DNA sequencing and machine learning are making it easier to discover and classify new species.

These estimates underscore the importance of ongoing research and exploration to fully understand and protect the entirety of Earth’s biodiversity.