Question

Zoological name of tiger is (a) Mangifera indica (b) Solanum tuberosum (c) Solanum melongena (d) Panthera tigris

Short answer

The zoological name of tiger is Panthera tigris.

Step-by-step solution

Understanding Binomial Nomenclature

In the scientific community, organisms are identified through a system referred to as binomial nomenclature. In this system, each species is assigned a unique two-part Latin name. The first part of the name identifies the genus to which the species belong and the second part identifies the species within the genus.

Identify the Options

Now, look at the options provided. (a) Mangifera indica - it is the botanical name for mango. (b) Solanum tuberosum - it is the botanical (scientific) name for potato. (c) Solanum melongena - it is the botanical name for eggplant or brinjal. (d) Panthera tigris - Panthera is the genus name and tigris is the species name.

Correct Answer

From the above options, it is clear that (d) Panthera tigris is the zoological name of a tiger. The other options including Mangifera Indica, Solanum tuberosum and Solanum melongena are all botanical names and relate to plants, not animals.

Key concepts

Scientific Naming

Scientific naming, or binomial nomenclature, is a universal system that assigns each species a unique two-part Latin name. This system is crucial because it allows scientists across the globe to communicate clearly about specific organisms without confusion. The naming structure consists of two single-word segments:

• Genus: The first part represents the genus, which is the broader grouping that includes related species. For example, in the name Panthera tigris (the scientific name for a tiger), "Panthera" is the genus.
• Species: The second part identifies the specific species within the genus. In "Panthera tigris," "tigris" indicates that it is a tiger.

This naming system, introduced by Carl Linnaeus in the 18th century, is standardized and regulated by international codes, ensuring that once a name is assigned, it remains consistent. This helps avoid the confusion that can arise from common names, which can vary across languages and regions. For example, what is known as a "tiger" in English is referred to as "tigre" in Spanish, but it is always Panthera tigris scientifically.

Zoological Classification

Zoological classification is the method used to organize and categorize animals into hierarchical groups. This process helps in understanding the relationships between various organisms and is essential for effective species identification, study, and conservation.

• Kingdom: The broadest classification level. Animals fall under the Kingdom Animalia.
• Phylum: Groups organisms based on basic structural features. Tigers belong to Phylum Chordata, signifying they have a spine.
• Class: Includes more specific traits like being warm-blooded or having hair. Tigers are in the Class Mammalia.
• Order: Narrows down groups within the class. For tigers, this is Carnivora, indicating they are meat-eaters with certain teeth structures.
• Family: Even more specific, combining organisms that share more detailed similarities. Tigers fall under the Family Felidae, which includes all cats.
• Genus and Species: The final two divisions are the genus and the species, forming the scientific name such as Panthera tigris.

This hierarchical system begins broadly and becomes specific, making it easier to study and understand evolutionary relationships among animals.

Species Identification

Species identification involves determining which species an organism belongs to based on specific characteristics. This process is crucial in biodiversity studies, wildlife conservation, and ecological research. Identification relies on several approaches:

• Morphological Traits: These are the physical characteristics of an organism, such as size, shape, color, and anatomical features. For tigers, distinctive orange coats with black stripes are key identifiers.
• Genetic Analysis: DNA fingerprinting allows for precise identification by comparing genetic sequences. This is particularly effective in distinguishing species that look similar physically.
• Behavioral Aspects: Observing behaviors such as mating calls, feeding habits, and territorial actions can help differentiate species.

Effective species identification is not only important for basic biological research but also plays a critical role in conservation efforts, helping scientists protect endangered species like the tiger by understanding their habitat needs and population dynamics.