Biological Classification

Flashcards covering key concepts related to biological classification and its history.

Classification

The process of arranging organisms into categories based on shared characteristics.

Monera

The kingdom consisting of prokaryotic organisms such as bacteria.

Eukaryotic

Organisms whose cells contain a nucleus and organelles, including plants, animals, and fungi.

Prokaryotic

Organisms that lack a nucleus and organelles, mainly bacteria.

Chitin

A structural polysaccharide that makes up the cell walls of fungi.

Cellulose

A polysaccharide that makes up the cell walls of plants.

Binary Fission

A method of asexual reproduction in prokaryotes where a cell divides into two identical cells.

Gram Staining

A laboratory technique used to differentiate bacterial species into two groups based on their cell wall structure.

Autotrophic

Organisms that produce their own food through photosynthesis or chemosynthesis.

Heterotrophic

Organisms that obtain their nutrition by consuming other organisms.

Symbiosis

A close biological interaction between two different species, which can be mutualistic, commensalistic, or parasitic.

Pathogens

Microorganisms that can cause disease.

Diatoms

Unicellular, autotrophic, eukaryotic organisms found in aquatic environments, important for oxygen production.

Cyanobacteria

Photosynthetic bacteria also known as blue-green algae, which can cause algal blooms.

Euglenoids

Unicellular organisms characterized by their ability to photosynthesize and move using flagella.

Dinoflagellates

A group of protists known for their two flagella and ability to cause red tides.

Lichens

A symbiotic relationship between fungi and algae, often used as indicators of air quality.

Fungi

A kingdom of non-photosynthetic, eukaryotic organisms that include molds and mushrooms, typically with a cell wall made of chitin.

Protista

A kingdom comprising mainly unicellular organisms that do not fit into the plant, animal, or fungi kingdoms.

Viruses

Acellular infectious entities that can only replicate inside a host cell.

Prions

Infectious agents composed solely of protein that can cause neurodegenerative diseases.

Halophiles

Organisms that thrive in extremely salty environments.

Thermoacidophiles

Bacteria that can survive in hot, acidic environments, such as hot springs.