Problem 75 - Objective Biology for NEET

Question

Which of the following represent the family of mango? (a) Sapindales (b) Anacardiaceae (c) Poales (d) Poaceae

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

The family of mango is Anacardiaceae.

Step 1: Identifying the correct family of mango tree

To answer this question, it is required to know about the classification of the mango tree. According to the hierarchical system of classification in biology, mango comes under class Magnoliopsida, order Sapindales and the family Anacardiaceae. Thus, the correct option is (b) Anacardiaceae.

Key Concepts

Family Anacardiaceae

The family Anacardiaceae, often referred to as the cashew or sumac family, is a group of flowering plants that have a significant global presence. This family encompasses several well-known trees, shrubs, and vines, including mangoes, cashews, and pistachios. Anacardiaceae members are usually identified by their unique stem structure and resin ducts.

• The plants in this family often have compound leaves, which means their leaves are divided into multiple leaflets.
• Many species produce fruit that is drupe: a fleshy fruit with thin skin and a central stone containing the seed.
• They are commonly found in tropical and subtropical regions, thriving in a variety of ecosystems.

It's fascinating to learn that mangoes belong to this family, highlighting the diverse nature of plant families encompassing a wide range of species. Understanding the features of Anacardiaceae helps in identifying and classifying plants within this group effectively.

Classification System

The biological classification system, also known as taxonomy, is a framework for organizing living organisms into categories, known as taxa, based on shared characteristics. This system helps scientists communicate more effectively about the vast diversity of life on Earth.

• The hierarchy of classification includes several levels: Domain, Kingdom, Phylum, Class, Order, Family, Genus, and Species.
• Each succeeding level represents a more specific grouping of related organisms.
• This system allows for the identification and categorization of an organism in a universal manner.

For the mango, its classification would be written as its Class being Magnoliopsida, Order as Sapindales, and Family as Anacardiaceae. Each level gives us more information about the mango's evolutionary relationships and biological features, helping scholars and botanists to explore the rich tapestry of life.

Magnoliopsida

Magnoliopsida is a class within the plant kingdom, commonly referred to as dicotyledons or dicots. This class represents a vast group of flowering plants that are characterized by having two seed leaves or cotyledons upon germination.
Some notable characteristics of Magnoliopsida include:

• Vascular bundles in the stem are organized in a ring.
• Leads typically have net-like veins which provide structural support.
• Flowers often have parts arranged in multiples of four or five.

Dicots form a majority of the world's flowering plants, presenting incredible diversities in form and ecological adaptations. The class includes numerous families and species, like mangoes, which belong to this category, showcasing how broad and varied Magnoliopsida is.

Order Sapindales

Order Sapindales is an important order in the botanical classification, encompassing various families of flowering plants. This order is diverse, containing numerous economically valuable species known for producing fruits and other natural products.

• Sapindales include families like Anacardiaceae, Sapindaceae, and Rutaceae, which contain familiar fruits such as mangoes, lychees, and citrus fruits.
• The order is primarily known for woody plants, including trees, shrubs, and climbers.
• The plants under this order can be found in a wide range of climates, from tropical to temperate zones.

Understanding the order Sapindales provides insight into the complex interrelationships between plant families and their members, highlighting how taxonomy helps organize and define biological diversity.