Exploring Taxonomy and Classification

What is the correct order of the taxonomic hierarchy from broadest to most specific?

• Kingdom, Phylum, Class, Order, Family, Genus, Species, Domain

• Domain, Kingdom, Phylum, Class, Order, Family, Genus, Species

• Species, Genus, Family, Order, Class, Phylum, Kingdom, Domain

• Domain, Species, Genus, Family, Order, Class, Phylum, Kingdom

Answer explanation

The correct order of the taxonomic hierarchy from broadest to most specific is Domain, Kingdom, Phylum, Class, Order, Family, Genus, Species. This reflects the increasing specificity of classification.

Which of the following is NOT a domain in the classification system?

• Bacteria

• Archaea

• Protista

• Eukarya

Answer explanation

Protista is not a domain in the modern classification system; it is a kingdom. The three domains are Bacteria, Archaea, and Eukarya.

Which kingdom is characterized by organisms that are multicellular, have cell walls made of cellulose, and perform photosynthesis?

• Animalia

• Plantae

• Fungi

• Protista

Answer explanation

The Plantae kingdom includes multicellular organisms with cell walls made of cellulose that perform photosynthesis, distinguishing them from Animalia, Fungi, and Protista.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS1-6

Explain why the domain classification is considered more inclusive than the kingdom classification.

• Domains include multiple kingdoms within them.

• Domains are based on physical characteristics only.

• Kingdoms are divided into domains.

• Domains are the smallest classification level.

Answer explanation

The domain classification is more inclusive because it encompasses multiple kingdoms, allowing for a broader categorization of life forms compared to the more specific kingdom classification.

Which level of taxa is directly above the genus level in the taxonomic hierarchy?

• Family

• Order

• Class

• Species

Answer explanation

In the taxonomic hierarchy, the level directly above genus is family. This classification groups related genera together, making 'Family' the correct answer.

What reasoning might a scientist use to classify an organism into the domain Eukarya?

• The organism is unicellular and lacks a nucleus.

• The organism has a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles.

• The organism is prokaryotic and lives in extreme environments.

• The organism is multicellular and lacks a cell wall.

Answer explanation

An organism is classified in the domain Eukarya if it has a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles, distinguishing it from prokaryotic organisms, which lack these features.

Which of the following kingdoms includes organisms that are primarily decomposers?

• Animalia

• Plantae

• Fungi

• Protista

Answer explanation

Fungi are primarily decomposers, breaking down organic matter and recycling nutrients in ecosystems. Unlike Animalia, Plantae, and Protista, fungi play a crucial role in decomposition.

How does the classification of organisms into domains help scientists understand evolutionary relationships?

• It groups organisms based on their physical appearance.

• It reflects the genetic and evolutionary history of organisms.

• It categorizes organisms by their habitat.

• It organizes organisms by their size.

Answer explanation

The classification of organisms into domains reflects their genetic and evolutionary history, helping scientists understand how different organisms are related and how they have evolved over time.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS4-2

Which of the following is a characteristic of the kingdom Animalia?

• Organisms are autotrophic and have cell walls.

• Organisms are heterotrophic and lack cell walls.

• Organisms are unicellular and prokaryotic.

• Organisms are autotrophic and lack a nucleus.

Answer explanation

The kingdom Animalia is characterized by organisms that are heterotrophic, meaning they obtain food by consuming other organisms, and they lack cell walls, distinguishing them from plants and fungi.

Why is it important for scientists to use a standardized taxonomic hierarchy?

• It allows for the classification of organisms based on size.

• It ensures consistent communication and understanding among scientists worldwide.

• It helps in identifying organisms based on their color.

• It categorizes organisms by their speed of movement.

Answer explanation

Using a standardized taxonomic hierarchy is crucial as it ensures consistent communication and understanding among scientists worldwide, allowing them to accurately identify and discuss organisms without confusion.