4.2.2 Classification and evolution

Question 1

What are the taxonomic groups?

Answer 1

Domain
Kingdom
Phylum
Class
Order
Family
Genus
Species

Question 2

Why do scientists classify organisms?

Answer 2

• To identify species
• To predict characteristics
• To find evolutionary links (come from a common ancestor)

Question 3

What are the three domains of life?

Answer 3

Archaea
Bacteria
Eukarya

Question 4

Define species

Answer 4

A group of organisms that are able to reproduce to produce fertile offspring

Question 5

Why is naming organisms using genus and species better than common names?

Answer 5

• Easier to classify internationally
• Provide the relationship between organisms, for example they may belong to the same genus

Question 6

What are the five kingdoms?

Answer 6

• Prokaryotae (later split into eubacteria and archaebacteria after domain was introduced)
• Protoctista
• Fungi
• Plantae
• Animalia

Question 7

How have classification systems changed?

Answer 7

• Based on observable features, now relies on evolutionary relationships by comparing similarities in DNA
• Two kingdoms (animals and plants) became five kingdoms which then became six kingdoms
• Domain was added after studies on genetic material