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The science of classifying living matter according to historical relationships is called taxonomy. It begins with the five basic kingdoms, Animalia, Plantae, Fungi, Monera and Protista, and continues down through a number of subclassifications to reach the individual species.

Human beings, for instance, are placed in the kingdom Animalia with the actual genus and species being Homo sapiens (there are a few other steps in between). A potato is in the kindom Plantae, the genus and species being Solanum tuberosum.

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What branch of science classifies organisms?

The branch of science that classifies organisms is taxonomy. Taxonomy involves identifying, naming, and categorizing organisms based on their shared characteristics and evolutionary relationships.


What is molecular homology?

Molecular homology refers to similarities in DNA or protein sequences among different organisms. These similarities suggest a common evolutionary ancestry and are used to infer evolutionary relationships and trace the diversification of species over time. Molecular homology is a key principle in molecular biology and evolutionary studies.


Why do organisms exhibit similarities and differences?

Organisms exhibit similarities due to shared evolutionary history, where common ancestry results in shared characteristics. Differences arise from adaptations to various environments and selective pressures, leading to diverse traits within and between species.


What is the most accurate evidence of an evolutionary relationship between two organisms?

The most accurate evidence of an evolutionary relationship between two organisms is the presence of shared genetic similarities, specifically in their DNA sequences. This indicates a common ancestry and evolutionary history between the two organisms.


Which of the following do cladistic taxonomists not compare when hypothesizing evolutionary relationships among organisms?

Cladistic taxonomists do not usually compare similarities in overall resemblance or appearance when hypothesizing evolutionary relationships among organisms. Instead, they focus on shared derived characteristics, or synapomorphies, to determine evolutionary relationships.

Related Questions

What branch of science classifies organisms?

The branch of science that classifies organisms is taxonomy. Taxonomy involves identifying, naming, and categorizing organisms based on their shared characteristics and evolutionary relationships.


What is molecular homology?

Molecular homology refers to similarities in DNA or protein sequences among different organisms. These similarities suggest a common evolutionary ancestry and are used to infer evolutionary relationships and trace the diversification of species over time. Molecular homology is a key principle in molecular biology and evolutionary studies.


Why is the name of a group connected and related organisms?

The name of a group of connected and related organisms, known as a taxon, reflects their shared evolutionary history and characteristics. Taxonomy classifies organisms based on similarities in genetics, morphology, and behavior, helping scientists communicate about biodiversity and evolutionary relationships. This systematic naming, often using a hierarchical structure (like domain, kingdom, phylum, etc.), allows for a standardized way to identify and study living things within the context of their shared lineage.


Why do organisms exhibit similarities and differences?

Organisms exhibit similarities due to shared evolutionary history, where common ancestry results in shared characteristics. Differences arise from adaptations to various environments and selective pressures, leading to diverse traits within and between species.


What is the most accurate evidence of an evolutionary relationship between two organisms?

The most accurate evidence of an evolutionary relationship between two organisms is the presence of shared genetic similarities, specifically in their DNA sequences. This indicates a common ancestry and evolutionary history between the two organisms.


Present- day taxonomists attempt to group organisms according to what?

Present-day taxonomists attempt to group organisms according to their evolutionary relationships, genetic similarities, and shared characteristics. This helps to organize and classify living organisms into hierarchical categories based on their shared ancestry and unique characteristics.


How is evolutionary classification different from Linnaeus's system of classification?

Evolutionary classification groups organisms based on their shared evolutionary history and genetic relationships, while Linnaeus's system of classification is based on observable physical features and similarities. Evolutionary classification reflects the understanding that all organisms are related through common ancestry, while Linnaeus's system focuses on organizing organisms into hierarchical categories based on shared physical characteristics.


Why Darwin is linked with natural system of classification?

Charles Darwin is linked with the natural system of classification because his theory of evolution by natural selection provided a scientific basis for organizing living organisms based on their evolutionary relationships. Darwin's ideas emphasized that similarities among species reflect common ancestry, leading to a hierarchical classification system that groups organisms according to shared characteristics and evolutionary lineage. This approach paved the way for modern taxonomy, which classifies organisms not just by physical traits but also by genetic and evolutionary connections.


Is traditional classification different than evolutionary classification.?

Yes, traditional classification is based on observable similarities and differences in organisms, while evolutionary classification groups organisms based on their evolutionary relationships and shared ancestry. Traditional classification may not always reflect evolutionary relationships accurately, which is why evolutionary classification is often considered more accurate and informative.


Why are similarities in body structure used to group organisms?

Similarities in body structure, or anatomical features, are used to group organisms because they reflect evolutionary relationships and shared ancestry. Organisms that share similar structures, such as bones or organs, often have common evolutionary origins, making it easier to classify them into taxonomic categories. This approach helps scientists understand the evolutionary pathways and functional adaptations of different species, facilitating the study of biodiversity and the relationships within ecosystems. Additionally, these structural similarities can indicate how organisms have evolved to adapt to their environments.


How does the cladistics system differ from hierarchal classification?

Cladistics groups organisms based on shared ancestral traits, focusing on evolutionary relationships. Hierarchical classification organizes organisms based on shared physical characteristics and is used in traditional taxonomy. Cladistics is based on evolutionary history, while hierarchical classification is based on observable similarities.


Which of the following do cladistic taxonomists not compare when hypothesizing evolutionary relationships among organisms?

Cladistic taxonomists do not usually compare similarities in overall resemblance or appearance when hypothesizing evolutionary relationships among organisms. Instead, they focus on shared derived characteristics, or synapomorphies, to determine evolutionary relationships.