Question

Find out the incorrect statement from the following: (a) Closely related species differ in morphological features. (b) Genus comprises a group of related species. (c) Taxonomic studies are useful in agricultural, forestry and industries. (d) Notochord and ventral hollow neural system are common features of phylum chordata.

Short answer

The incorrect statement is (d) Notochord and ventral hollow neural system are common features of phylum chordata.

Step-by-step solution

Understand the Definition of Species, Genera, and Phylum

Species are often defined as the largest group of organisms where two hybrids are capable of reproducing fertile offspring, typically using sexual reproduction. Genus comprises a group of species that have a set of similar characteristics. Phylum chordata, a group of animals sharing a notochord among other features, includes vertebrates with a dorsal nerve cord, gill slits, and post-anal tail at some point of their lives.

Evaluate Statement A

(a) Closely related species differ in morphological features. This statement is true. Even closely related species can have differences in physical characteristics such as size, shape, and color, due to variations and mutations in their genetic codes.

Evaluate Statement B

(b) Genus comprises a group of related species. This statement is also true. Species that share similar characteristics are grouped into a genus. This grouping is part of the hierarchical nature of taxonomy.

Evaluate Statement C

(c) Taxonomic studies are useful in agricultural, forestry, and industries. This statement is true. Taxonomic studies provide valuable information about the biodiversity and characteristics of organisms and can help make decisions in agriculture, forestry, and other industries.

Evaluate Statement D

(d) Notochord and ventral hollow neural system are common features of phylum chordata. This statement is false. While notochord is a common feature of phylum chordata, a ventral hollow neural system is not. In chordates, the neural system is dorsal (located on the back of an organism).

Key concepts

Species

In the world of biology, species are fundamental units of classification. Biologists define a species as a group of living organisms that can reproduce with one another to produce fertile offspring. Usually, these organisms share similar characteristics and genetic makeup.

However, even within closely related species, variations in morphological features, like size or color, can exist because of genetic differences or environmental adaptations. This concept is crucial in understanding biodiversity and the evolution of various organisms across ecosystems.

When studying different species, we often look at how they interact with their environments and each other. Links through ecological relationships and evolutionary history provide insight into how species evolve and adapt over time. This helps us understand the interconnectedness of life, showcasing the importance of conserving biodiversity for future generations.

Morphological features

Morphological features refer to the structural characteristics of organisms, including their shape, size, and structure. These features are what we often observe to differentiate one organism from another.

Closely related species may exhibit differences in their morphological features due to various reasons, such as geographic isolation, environmental pressures, and genetic mutations. These differences can become significant enough over time to suggest the divergence from a common ancestor, marking the process of evolution.

Understanding morphological features is essential for taxonomists who classify and categorize living organisms. This examination allows scientists to trace evolutionary paths and find relationships between organisms that may not be apparent initially.

Phylum Chordata

Phylum Chordata is a significant classification in the biological taxonomy system encompassing a wide range of organisms, including the vertebrates, which are animals with backbones.

All chordates share some common features at some point in their life, such as a notochord, a dorsal nerve cord, pharyngeal slits, and a post-anal tail. These features are crucial for the development and functioning of the organisms within this phylum.

Within the Phylum Chordata, there are many diverse groups, from fish and amphibians to reptiles, birds, and mammals. Each has adapted to its environment in unique ways while still sharing the core characteristics of chords. This shared anatomy forms the backbone of understanding vertebrate evolution and relationships with other life forms.

Genus

A genus is a rank in biological classification that groups together species exhibiting similar characteristics, marking an important step in the taxonomy hierarchy.

Genera contain species that share structural attributes and DNA sequences, reflecting their evolutionary history and genetic relationship. For instance, the genus *Panthera* includes species like lions, tigers, and leopards.

These classifications are not merely for organization but also serve a functional purpose in biological research and study. By grouping species into a genus, scientists can better predict characteristics and behaviors of less understood or newly discovered species based on the well-documented members of the same genus.

Taxonomies are dynamic, subject to change as new genetic and morphological data become available, helping to refine our understanding of life on Earth.