Topic 2: Classification and Diversity of Living Organisms

This set of flashcards is designed to help students review key concepts related to the classification and diversity of living organisms, including important systems, structures, and adaptations.

What is the hierarchical system of classification in biology?

It arranges organisms from largest to smallest groups: Kingdom, phylum, class, order, family, genus, species.

What are the two parts of the binomial system of naming species?

The genus name (capitalized) and the species name (lowercase), such as Homo sapiens.

What are the key features of flowering plants classified as dicotyledons?

They have broad leaves, branching veins, a tap root system, and flowers in multiples of four or five.

How do viruses differ from living organisms?

Viruses do not have cellular structure, cannot reproduce independently, and do not grow or respond to stimuli.

What is a dichotomous key?

A tool that allows the user to identify items in the natural world by making a series of choices between two descriptions.

What is the classification structure of humans?

Kingdom: Animalia; Phylum: Chordata; Class: Mammalia; Order: Primates; Family: Hominidae; Genus: Homo; Species: sapiens.

What are the common features of class Insecta?

Insects have a body divided into three sections, three pairs of jointed legs, and most have two pairs of wings.

What external features are common to bony fish?

Bony fish have a body skeleton, gills covered by an operculum, and fins for swimming.

What adaptation helps amphibians survive in water?

Their moist skin aids in gaseous exchange, allowing them to absorb oxygen while submerged.

What are the key diagnostic features of annelids?

Segmented bodies with similar segments, soft bodies with a hydrostatic skeleton, and bristles for movement.

What adaptation do crustaceans have for underwater life?

They possess gills for gaseous exchange, allowing them to live underwater.

How do mammals adapt to cold environments?

Their bodies are covered with fur for insulation, and they have sweat glands to help regulate body temperature.