Classification

• Classification - The grouping of organisms
• Hierarchy - A series of large groups split into smaller groups but there is no overlap between groups
• One hierarchy comprises the taxa:

  • Domain
  • Kingdom
  • Phylum
  • Class
  • Order
  • Family
  • Genus
  • Species
• Artificial classification - Divides organisms according to differences that are useful at the time

  • Such features may include colour, size, number of legs, leaf shape etc
  • These are described as analogous characteristics where they have the same function but do not have the same evolutionary origins