Question

Which is not a part of taxonomic hierarchy? (a) Genus and species (b) Order and class (c) Kingdom and class (d) Catalogue and herbarium

Short answer

The pair 'Catalogue and herbarium' is not a part of the taxonomic hierarchy.

Step-by-step solution

Understanding Options

Look at all the options. Each option contains two terms, and the task is to determine which pair does not contain terms from the taxonomic hierarchy.

Evaluate Option (a)

The first option is 'Genus and Species'. Both of these terms are clearly part of the taxonomic hierarchy.

Evaluate Option (b)

The second option is 'Order and Class'. Again, both of these terms are parts of the taxonomic hierarchy.

Evaluate Option (c)

The third option is 'Kingdom and Class'. Like before, 'Kingdom' and 'Class' are both components of the taxonomic hierarchy.

Evaluate Option (d)

The last option is 'Catalogue and Herbarium'. 'Catalogue' is not a part of the taxonomic hierarchy while 'Herbarium' is a collection of preserved plants for reference, not a rank in the taxonomic hierarchy. Thus, option (d) does not belong to the taxonomic hierarchy.

Key concepts

Taxonomy

Taxonomy is the science of classifying organisms into a structured framework, allowing scientists to identify, name, and categorize species into a global nomenclature. This discipline is fundamental for understanding the phylogenetic relationships among organisms and tracing their evolutionary history.

Through taxonomy, biologists can communicate about species more effectively as each organism is given a unique taxonomic identifier. This standard classification is essential not only for the scientific community but also for conservation efforts, environmental policies, and education.

Biological Classification

Biological classification, or systematics, refers to the process of organizing living organisms into categories based on their physical characteristics, genetic similarities, and evolutionary relationships. This hierarchical system helps us to make sense of the vast diversity of life on Earth and is useful for scientists to study the relationships between different organisms.

The hierarchy includes several ranks: domain, kingdom, phylum, class, order, family, genus, and species, in descending order of inclusiveness. Each rank groups organisms that share common characteristics, with species being the most specific and domain the most expansive.

Genus and Species

The terms 'genus' and 'species' represent key ranks in biological classification. A genus comprises one or more species that are closely related and share a common ancestor, while a species is the fundamental unit of classification, consisting of individuals that can reproduce fertile offspring with one another.

The scientific name of an organism combines its genus and species name, a system known as binomial nomenclature, such as Homo sapiens for humans. This precise naming convention avoids confusion and ensures that each living organism has a unique and universally accepted name.

Kingdom and Class

Within the taxonomic hierarchy, 'kingdom' is one of the highest ranks and used to divide life into large and broad groups based on fundamental characteristics. For example, animals belong to the Animalia kingdom. 'Class' is a lower taxonomic category that further divides organisms within a phylum.

Classes group organisms that have similar body plans or features. For instance, in the Animalia kingdom, the class Mammalia includes all mammals, defined by characteristics like warm-blooded physiology and having mammary glands. This hierarchical organization aids in a more detailed and comprehensive understanding of biodiversity.