Classification of Organisms and Animal Kingdom Characteristics

These flashcards cover key vocabulary terms related to the classification of organisms and their characteristics.

Domain

The most inclusive level of classification of organisms.

Kingdom

A major taxonomic category that ranks above phylum and below domain.

Phylum

A level of classification that groups organisms based on major body plans.

Class

A taxonomic category composed of similar orders.

Order

A category that ranks below class and above family.

Family

A taxonomic group of related genera.

Genus

A taxonomic group that comprises one or more species.

Species

The most specific level of classification, representing individual organisms that can breed.

Multicellular

Organisms composed of multiple cells.

Eukaryotic

Cells that contain a nucleus and organelles.

Heterotrophic

Organisms that cannot produce their own food and must obtain it by consuming other organisms.

Radial symmetry

Body plan in which body parts are arranged around a central axis.

Bilateral symmetry

Body plan in which the left and right sides are mirror images.

Notochord

A flexible rod that supports the body and induces the formation of the neural tube in chordates.

Amphibia

A class of cold-blooded vertebrates that typically live both on land and in water.

Reptilia

A class of cold-blooded vertebrates with scaly skin and lungs.

Aves

A class of warm-blooded vertebrates characterized by feathers.

Mammalia

A class of warm-blooded vertebrates that have hair and produce milk for their young.

Chitin

A polysaccharide that makes up the exoskeleton of arthropods.

Mantle

The part of a mollusk that secretes the shell.

Radula

A spiked tongue-like structure used by mollusks for feeding.

Invertebrates

Animals without a backbone.

Vertebrates

Animals with a backbone.

Echinodermata

A phylum characterized by radial symmetry and a spiny skin.

Cephalothorax

A fused head and thorax in some arthropods.

Metamorphosis

A process of development in which an organism undergoes significant physical changes.