Question

Write two important characteristics of each of the five kingdoms.

Answer 1

Five-kingdom classification:

1. The five kingdom classification was proposed by R.H Whittaker in 1969.
2. He divided all living organisms into five kingdoms based on the following characteristics:

• Cell structures.
• Body structures.
• Mode of nutrition.
• Habitat.
• Phylogenetic relationship.

The five kingdoms were Monera, Protista, Fungi , Plantae and Animalia.

Kingdom Monera:

1. These include unicellular, prokaryotic organisms.
2. They can found in a wide variety of habitats.
3. Example: Bacteria.

Kingdom Protista:

1. These include unicellular, eukaryotic organisms.
2. They lack cell wall and can be found in variety of shapes.
3. Example: Euglena, Paramecium, etc.

Kingdom Fungi:

1. These include unicellular or multicellular, eukaryotic organisms.
2. They have a cell wall made up of chitin.
3. Example: Bread mould, Yeast, etc.

Kingdom Plantae:

1. These include multicellular, eukaryotic autotrophs.
2. Their cell wall is made up of cellulose.
3. Examples: Mango, Banana, etc.

Kingdom Animalia:

1. These include multicellular, eukaryotic heterotrophs.
2. They lack cell wall.
3. Example: Humans, dogs, etc.