Problem 67 - Objective Biology for NEET

Question

Zoological name of cockroach is (a) Periplaneta americana (b) Pheretima posthuma (c) Rana tigrina (d) Maja maja

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

The zoological name of a cockroach is Periplaneta americana.

Step 1: Understand the question

The question is asking you to identify the correct zoological (scientific) name for a cockroach from the provided options.

Step 2: Recall zoology nomenclature

Zoological nomenclature is the systematic naming of animals and the rules that govern these names. Remembering the correct names requires familiarity with the subject or reference to external sources like zoology textbooks or reliable online sources.

Step 3: Identify the zoological name of a cockroach

From knowledge or research, one can find that the zoological name of a cockroach is Periplaneta americana.

Key Concepts

Scientific Naming of Animals

The world of science has a structured method of naming organisms, known as scientific naming or binomial nomenclature. This system was developed by Carl Linnaeus in the 18th century and remains a central part of taxonomy today. The scientific name for each species consists of two parts: the genus name, which is capitalized, and the species descriptor, which is not. This naming protocol helps scientists from around the world communicate with precision, regardless of language barriers.

For instance, when we refer to the common house cockroach, we use the scientific name Periplaneta americana. The first part, 'Periplaneta', classifies the genus, while 'americana' denotes the specific species within that genus. This systematic method prevents confusion that may arise from common names, which can vary greatly across different languages and regions.

Taxonomy

Taxonomy is the branch of science concerned with classification, particularly of organisms. It serves as the foundation for organizing knowledge about living things and permits a precise understanding of relationships among species. The taxonomic hierarchy starts broad, from domains and kingdoms, and works its way down to the species level. Below the species, there can also be subspecies or varieties, indicating even finer distinctions.

Scientists use morphological, genetic, and biochemical information to classify organisms. The role of taxonomy extends beyond mere naming; it helps in conserving biodiversity by elucidating the evolutionary links between organisms and highlighting the diversity of life on Earth. It's important to note that taxonomy is not static; it changes with new findings, leading to reclassifications and sometimes controversies within the scientific community.

Periplaneta americana

The species Periplaneta americana refers to a common species of cockroach, often referred to as the American cockroach. Despite its name, it is not native solely to America and can be found in various regions around the world. These cockroaches prefer warm and damp environments and are commonly seen in households, which can make them a nuisance. Understanding their scientific name is crucial in the study of entomology (the study of insects) because it precisely identifies the species without ambiguity.

In terms of classification, Periplaneta americana belongs to the family Blattidae. This detail is relevant for students to note as it can help them understand broader ecological interactions and the pest management strategies that might be used against this species. Recognizing Periplaneta americana through its scientific name is fundamental for both scientific research and practical applications such as pest control.