Problem 71 - Objective Biology for NEET

Question

Select the total number of family from the following: Felis, Felidae, Solanaceae, Liliaceae, Canidae, Hominidae, Poaceae, Muscidae, Insecta, Convolvulaceae (a) 5 (b) 6 (c) 7 (d) 8

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

The total number of families from the given list is 8. Therefore, option (d) 8 is the correct answer.

Step 1: Identifying the Families

This step involves identifying which of the given names are falls within the 'Family' rank. The Families from among the listed are as follows: Felidae, Solanaceae, Liliaceae, Canidae, Hominidae, Poaceae, Muscidae, Convolvulaceae. 'Felis' and 'Insecta' are not families; 'Felis' is a genus and 'Insecta' is a class.

Step 2: Counting the Families

Next, count the number of Families identified in step 1. There are 8 Families altogether: Felidae, Solanaceae, Liliaceae, Canidae, Hominidae, Poaceae, Muscidae, Convolvulaceae.

Key Concepts

Taxonomic Hierarchy

The concept of taxonomic hierarchy is fundamental to the organization and classification of living organisms. It provides a systematic framework for naming and grouping species in a way that reflects their evolutionary relationships. In this hierarchical system, several ranks are used, starting with the broadest category, 'Domain', and narrowing down to the most specific, 'Species'.

The primary ranks include Domain, Kingdom, Phylum, Class, Order, Family, Genus, and Species. In our exercise example, names like 'Felidae', 'Canidae', and 'Liliaceae' represent the 'Family' level of classification. This mid-level rank is crucial because it groups genera that share a set of distinctive characteristics, indicating their common ancestry and evolutionary traits.

• Domain: The highest taxonomic rank, larger than a kingdom.
• Kingdom: One rank below domain, consisting of several phyla.
• Phylum: Subdivision of a kingdom, encompassing one or more classes.
• Class: Groups related orders.
• Order: Assembles families sharing common features.
• Family: Includes one or more genera.
• Genus: A group of species with close similarities.
• Species: The most specific rank, representing a single type of organism.

Biological Nomenclature

Biological nomenclature is the method by which biologists identify and name species as distinct units within the taxonomic hierarchy. The universally accepted system of naming is binomial nomenclature, introduced by Carl Linnaeus. This system designates each species with a two-part Latinized name – the first part indicates the 'Genus' and the second, the 'Species'.

For instance, when we refer to 'Felis catus', 'Felis' represents the genus, and 'catus' specifies the species. This naming ensures that each species has a unique, scientifically recognized name that is accepted worldwide. This is vital for clear communication among scientists and helps prevent confusion that could arise from using common names that might vary by language or region.

Furthermore, names of taxonomic ranks above species, like 'Family', are singular and always capitalized, such as 'Felidae' or 'Poaceae'. Recognizing these conventions is key when identifying taxonomic categories in scientific exercises or competitive exams, such as NEET.

NEET Biology

NEET, which stands for National Eligibility cum Entrance Test, is a pre-eminent entrance examination in India for students who wish to pursue undergraduate medical courses. Biology is a pivotal section in NEET, encompassing a vast syllabus that includes concepts like taxonomic hierarchy and biological nomenclature, which are essential for understanding the diversity of life on Earth.

The NEET Biology curriculum covers the principles of classification and the detailed characteristics of different taxonomic groups. Additionally, questions on NEET often involve practical application of this knowledge, such as identifying the correct family name of an organism from a list, as seen in our original exercise.

Thorough preparation for the NEET Biology section entails not only memorizing facts but also understanding concepts deeply so you can handle intricate problems effectively. Prospective medical students are therefore advised to focus diligently on taxonomy-related topics and to practice with textbook exercises to gain proficiency in this area.