Problem 39 - Objective Biology for NEET

Question

Botanical name of mango is (a) Mangifera indica (b) Solanum tuberosum (c) Solanum melongena (d) Panthera leo

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

The botanical name of mango is Mangifera indica.

Step 1: Understanding the Botanical Naming Convention

Botanical names consist of the genus, which begins with a capital letter, followed by the species, which begins with a lower case letter. Both are either italicized or underlined.

Step 2: Identifying the Botanical Name of Mango

Looking through the options, Mangifera indica matches the description given as it consists of a capitalized genus (Mangifera) and a lower-case species (indica) and it is known to be the scientific name for mango.

Key Concepts

Mangifera indica

Did you know that the botanical name for the mango is "Mangifera indica"? This botanical name is used universally to scientifically describe mangoes. The name comprises two parts: the genus and the species.
Mangoes are one of the most beloved fruits worldwide due to their sweet flavor. Whether you enjoy them fresh or in various dishes, they're recognized scientifically by the name Mangifera indica. This name is not just a label but a key that unlocks understanding about the mango's position in the plant kingdom.
Want to know more? The genus "Mangifera" indicates the group of plants that mangoes belong to. Meanwhile, "indica" refers to the species, helping to pin down its exact identity. Every mango, from the juiciest Alphonso to the common Tommy Atkins, shares this respected botanical name.

Botanical Naming Convention

The botanical naming convention, also known as binomial nomenclature, is a system established to give every plant a unique scientific name. This convention helps scientists and botanists communicate clearly about plants across different languages and regions.
The formula is quite simple: each plant's name is made up of two main parts, the genus and the species. The genus is always listed first and is capitalized, while the species follows and is in lowercase. These names are unanimous, serving as a universal lexicon for plant identification.
When written, these names are either italicized or underlined. This formatting helps distinguish them from common names in text. For instance, writing "Mangifera indica" like this signifies its scientific authority. This system reduces confusion that might arise from using common names, which can vary widely by region.

Genus and Species

In botanical classification, understanding the terms "genus" and "species" is key. The genus is the first part of the botanical name and serves as a sort of family name. It groups together plants that share common characteristics. For instance, in "Mangifera indica," "Mangifera" is the genus.
The species, on the other hand, is the second part of the name and identifies the plant more specifically. It highlights the unique traits within that genus. In "Mangifera indica," "indica" tells us the particular species within the Mangifera genus.
Think of it like this: the genus is the broader category, and the species is a specific member within that category. This specificity helps in accurately describing and differentiating plants, which is essential for scientific study and communication.