Biological Classification

Question 1

Hierarchy of biological classification

Answer 1

To remember the order of taxa in biology (Domain, Kingdom, Phylum, Class, Order, Family, Genus, Species, [Variety]): “Dear King Philip Came Over For Good Soup”

Question 2

Internationally agreed system of nomenclature of species

Answer 2

The binomial naming system. Each species is given a name that consists of two parts. The first part is the Genus to which the species belongs and the second part is the species name.

Rules of naming system:
Genus first, species second.
The genus is always capitalized and the species is always lowercase.
The genus and species names are written in italics

Question 3

Advantages and Disadvantages of an internationally agreed naming system

Answer 3

While binomial nomenclature is a precise and efficient way of naming species, it does have some drawbacks. One drawback is that it can be confusing for non-scientists. Another drawback is that it can be difficult to remember the names of all the species in a genus.

Question 4

Reproductive Isolation

Answer 4

The inability of a species to breed successfully with related species due to geographical, behavioral, physiological, or genetic barriers or differences over time.

Question 5

Types of Isolating Mechanisms

Answer 5

Mechanisms of isolation result in reproductive isolation over time.

Question 6

Prezygotic v postzygotic isolation

Answer 6

Prezygotic isolation – occurs before fertilisation can occur (no offspring are produced) Postzygotic isolation – occurs after fertilisation (offspring are either not viable or infertile)