What do you mean by classification? Name the levels of classification proposed by Linnaeus. Define the smallest unit of classification.
[3 MARKS]
Two definitions : 1 Mark each
Levels : 1 Mark
Classification is the arrangement of animals and plants in taxonomic groups according to their observed similarities.
Classification system as proposed by Linnaeus use a hierarchical system in which organisms are placed into groups, at different levels, according to the features they share. These groups or levels are :
Kingdom, Phylum, Class, Order, Family, Genus and Species
Species is the smallest unit of classification. A species is defined as a group of living organisms consisting of similar individuals capable of exchanging genes or interbreeding.