4.5 - Species and taxonomy

Question 1

In taxonomy, an organism is identified by referring to the species name and the genus name. What term is used to describe this method of naming organisms? (1)

Answer 1

• Binomial

Question 2

Figure 1 represents the phylogenetic classification of four different species of fruit fly. Explain how it shows a hierarchy. (2)

Answer 2

• (It shows) smaller groups within larger groups / larger groups containing smaller groups
• With no overlap (between groups)

Question 3

State three comparisons of genetic diversity that the scientists used in order to generate Classification Y. (3)

Answer 3

• The (base) sequence of DNA
• The (base) sequence of mRNA
• The amino acid sequence (of proteins)

Question 4

There are many different species of field mouse in Europe. Using a phylogenetic classification, all of these species have names that start with Apodemus. What information does this give about field mice? (2)

Answer 4

• Same genus
• Same evolutionary origin / common ancestor

Question 5

Describe how breeding experiments could determine whether the two populations are from the same species. (2)

Answer 5

• Breed the two mice together
• (Same species) produce fertile offspring