Classification Of Organisms Flashcards

Questions and Answers

What is a definition of the term species?

A species is defined as a group of organisms capable of passing genetic information within the group because the organisms can reproduce with one another.

How are organisms grouped into species?

Organisms are grouped into species based on similar physical characteristics and their ability to reproduce.

All organisms can be classified.

True

How are organisms classified?

Organisms are classified based on their physical characteristics, such as whether they have a backbone or are single-celled or multi-celled. Signup and view all the answers

How is a dichotomous key used to classify an organism?

A dichotomous key starts with a statement describing characteristics, where you choose one of two answers that lead to the next statement until the organism is classified. Signup and view all the answers

How do scientific names differ from common names?

Each organism has one unique scientific name, while common names can refer to multiple organisms. Signup and view all the answers

How do scientists create scientific names?

A scientific name has two parts: genus and species, often derived from Latin or Greek words describing the organism. Signup and view all the answers

What does an organism's scientific name tell us?

It shows the genus and species, indicating relatedness and evolutionary history. Signup and view all the answers

How do scientists classify organisms?

Scientists use common features to place organisms into categories. Signup and view all the answers

What are some common features that scientists use to classify organisms?

Scientists may use physical features like respiratory systems or skeletal structures, as well as behaviors such as reproductive groups. Signup and view all the answers

What is the Linnaean system of classification?

The Linnaean system places organisms into hierarchical groups based on shared characteristics: kingdom, phylum, class, order, family, genus, and species. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Definition of Species

A species is a group of organisms capable of interbreeding and passing genetic information.
All members of a species can reproduce, producing offspring that can also reproduce.

Grouping Organisms into Species

Organisms are classified into species based on similar physical traits.
The ability to reproduce and create viable offspring is crucial for species classification.

Classification of Organisms

All organisms, including extinct ones, can be classified.
Classification is based on various characteristics, such as the presence of a backbone and cellular structure (single-celled vs. multi-celled).

Classification Hierarchy

Organisms are classified in a hierarchical system: Domain, Kingdom, Phylum, Class, Order, Family, Genus, Species.

Dichotomous Key for Classification

A dichotomous key uses step-by-step statements to classify organisms.
Users select between two options in each statement, leading to further statements until a classification is achieved.

Scientific vs. Common Names

Organisms can have multiple common names, but each species has one unique scientific name.
Scientific names are standardized and minimize confusion caused by common naming conventions.

Creation of Scientific Names

Scientific names consist of two parts: genus and species.
Names often derive from Latin or Greek to describe characteristics of the organism.

Significance of Scientific Names

The scientific name reveals relationships between organisms (genus and species).
Understanding the name can provide insights into the organism's traits, habitat, diet, and behavior.

Criteria for Classifying Organisms

Scientists classify organisms based on common features including physical characteristics and behaviors.
Similar respiratory or skeletal systems and reproductive behaviors are often used as criteria.

Linnaean System of Classification

The Linnaean system organizes organisms into hierarchical groups based on shared traits.
The system includes categories: kingdom (largest) to species (smallest), with various intermediate groups.

Description

Test your knowledge on the classification of organisms with these flashcards. Learn about the definition of species and how organisms are grouped based on their physical characteristics. A great way to prepare for biology exams!