How many of the organisms given below are not included in Whittaker’s system of classification?
Cyanobacteria, Lichens, Mycoplasma, Slime moulds, Viroids, Prions
Whittaker’s system of classification did not include lichens, viruses, viroids and prions. They all lack cellular structure and hence cannot be classified into any kingdom. As lichens were a combination of two organisms (algae and fungi) living together, it was difficult to assign them into a particular kingdom.
Whittaker classified cyanobacteria and mycoplasma to the kingdom Monera, which includes all prokaryotes. Slime moulds are classified to the kingdom Protista which includes all unicellular eukaryotes.