Question

Which of the following was NOT a kingdom in Linnaeus's taxonomy? a. animal b. mineral c. protist d. plant

Short answer

c. protist

Step-by-step solution

Understand Linnaeus's System

Carl Linnaeus developed a classification system for living organisms known as 'Linnaeus's taxonomy'. It primarily included three kingdoms: Animalia, Plantae, and Mineralia.

Identify the Given Options

The options to choose from are: a. animal b. mineral c. protist d. plant

Compare with Linnaeus's Kingdoms

Compare each option with the three kingdoms established by Linnaeus. - Animal (Animalia): Present in Linnaeus's taxonomy. - Mineral (Mineralia): Present in Linnaeus's taxonomy. - Protist: Not present in Linnaeus's original taxonomy. - Plant (Plantae): Present in Linnaeus's taxonomy.

Determine the Correct Answer

The option that does not match Linnaeus's original taxonomy kingdoms is 'protist'.

Key concepts

classification system

A classification system helps scientists organize and understand the diversity of life. Carl Linnaeus, a Swedish botanist, created one of the earliest and most influential classification systems.

In Linnaeus's taxonomy, living organisms were grouped based on shared characteristics. This hierarchical system made it easier to identify and study organisms.

Each organism is categorized within a series of ranked levels, or taxa, from the broadest to the most specific:

• Kingdom
• Phylum
• Class
• Order
• Family
• Genus
• Species

Using this system, an organism's full scientific name can convey much information about its relationships to other life forms.

kingdoms of life

When Carl Linnaeus first developed his classification system in the 18th century, he recognized two main kingdoms: Animalia (animals) and Plantae (plants).

Later, he also included Mineralia (minerals), though this is not considered a kingdom of life by modern standards.

Today, scientists recognize more kingdoms to account for the incredible diversity of life. Instead of just two, we now classify life into several kingdoms, such as:

• Animalia – Multicellular organisms that can move and consume other organisms for energy.
• Plantae – Multicellular organisms that produce their own food through photosynthesis.
• Fungi – Includes mushrooms and molds, which feed on decaying organic matter.
• Protista – A diverse group including single-celled organisms like amoebas.
• Bacteria (Monera) – Single-celled microorganisms.
• Archaea – Single-celled microorganisms distinct from bacteria.

As our understanding of life's diversity grows, the classification system continues to evolve.

Carl Linnaeus

Carl Linnaeus, born in 1707, was a Swedish botanist, physician, and zoologist. He is best known for establishing one of the first comprehensive classification systems for living organisms.

Linnaeus's work, particularly his books 'Systema Naturae' and 'Species Plantarum,' laid the groundwork for modern taxonomy.

He introduced the binomial nomenclature system, which uses two Latin words to name each species, such as Homo sapiens for humans.

Linnaeus's approach improved scientific communication by providing a consistent way to name and categorize organisms. His influence is still felt today in the fields of biology and ecology.

Understanding Linnaeus's taxonomy helps us see the interconnectedness of all living things and appreciate the history of biological classification.