A3.2 Classification and Cladistics

Question 1

Define Classification

Answer 1

Grouping of living organisms according to similar characteristics.

Question 2

Define Taxonomy

Answer 2

Science of classifying organisms.

Question 3

Why is Taxonomy important

Answer 3

They allow us to better understand relationships and connections between organisms.

Question 4

Benefits of Taxonomy

Answer 4

Communication of biological information between scientists is consistent.

Predictions of characteristics is possible.

Species in the same group probably share a common ancestor, info on how species evolved.

Question 5

List the levels of classification in the traditional hierarchy of taxa

Answer 5

Domain
Kingdom
Phylum
Class
Order
Family
Genus
Species

Question 6

Difficulties of traditional classification system.

Answer 6

Hierarchy sets arbitrary limit on number of groupings: does not always correspond to patterns of divergence from evolution.

Genetically diverging populations may be hard to distinguish as unique species.

Morphologically similar groups may be the result of convergent evolution and not actually members of the same species.