Biology Year 9 - Unit 2 Classification

In Biology, the classification of organisms is essential in identifying living creatures, understanding biological relationships and preventing miscommunication. A great example of this is the "robin." In India, the Indian robin (Copsychus fulicatus) is a small, dark-colored bird with a distinctive upright tail. However, in Europe, the European robin (Erithacus rubecula) is a completely different species with an orange-red breast. Similarly, the American robin (Turdus migratorius) is actually a type of thrush, despite sharing the same common name. Without a proper classification system, these unrelated birds might be mistaken for close relatives. By using scientific classification, each species is given a unique name and placed in a structured hierarchy, allowing scientists to study their differences, similarities, and evolutionary connections.

System of naming organisms using genus and species

Binomial Nomenclature

A group of organisms that can interbreed and produce fertile offspring

species

Organisms that lack a true nucleus

prokaryotes

Organisms with a nucleus

eukaryotes

A tool used to identify organisms based on a series of choices leading to the correct name

Dichotomous key