Question

Species are considered as

• A. Real basic units of classification
• B. Lowest units of classification
• C. Artificial concept of human mind, which cannot be defined in absolute terms
• D. Real units of classification devised by taxonomists

Answer 1

The correct option is A Real basic units of classification

Among the major taxa in the taxonomic hierarchy, it is only species that has a real existence because irrespective of how humans (taxonomists) define it, it exists in nature as a group of interbreeding individuals. However, all the other taxa in the hierarchy have been created based on human imagination, considering certain characters in each case. Moreover, species is also the basic or lowest unit of classification in the taxonomic hierarchy. Thus, although option B is also correct, option A is most appropriate here, as the taxon species is not merely the basic or lowest unit of classification; it is also one that has a real existence.