Question

Which of the following is not defining feature of all living organisms?
(a) Reproduction
(b) Consciousness
(c) Metabolism
(d) Cellular organization

• A. All except(d)
• B. All except (c)
• C. Only (a)
• D. Both (b) and (c)

Answer 1

The correct option is C Only (a)

Reproduction cannot be an all-inclusive defining characteristic of living organisms. It refers to the production of new progeny. But in unicellular organisms like bacteria and amoeba, cell division is the mode of reproduction, leading to an increase in their numbers. Hence, reproduction for unicellular organisms becomes synonymous with growth. Also, many organisms are sterile and cannot reproduce, like mules and worker bees, but they are living organisms. So, it is not a defining character of living beings.