Question

Whittaker classified organisms into 5 kingdoms based on which of the following criterias?

• A. Complexity of cell structure.
• B. Number of cells.
• C. The type of habitat.
• D. Modes of locomotion.

Answer 1

Answer: (A), (B)

The correct options are
A Complexity of cell structure.
B Number of cells.

R.H. Whittaker introduced the 5-kingdom classification. These 5 kingdoms were Monera, Protista, Fungi, Plantae and Animalia.
The organisms were classified on the basis of-

• Complexity of cell structure
• Number of cells
• Mode of nutrition
• Phylogenetic relationships

On the basis of complexity of cell structure, organisms were classified into prokaryotes and eukaryotes. Prokaryotes do not have a well defined nucleus whereas eukaryotes have a well defined nucleus.
On the basis of number of cells, organisms were classified into unicellular and multicellular organisms. Unicellular organisms consist of one cell whereas multicellular organisms consist of many cells.
On the basis of mode of nutrition, organisms were classified into autotrophs and heterotrophs. Autotrophs can synthesise their own food whereas heterotrophs depend on autotrophs for their food.
Phylogeny means evolutionary history of organisms. In the 5 kingdom classification, organisms with common evoltionay history, i.e., common ancestors were placed together.