notes on diversity of organisms
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Introduction to Diversity in Living Organisms
We all know that there are abundant of living organisms present on the earth. Many organisms are not identical to each other.
This variety of living beings present on the earth is called as a Biodiversity.
Biologist have identified and classified more than 1.7 million species of organisms on this earth. Most of these species are found in the tropical regions of the world.
There is a separate branch of Biology called Taxonomy which identifies, names and classifies different organisms present on the earth.
Carolus Linnaeus is known as the Father of the Modern Taxonomy.
Classification of Living Things
Classification presented by Aristotle – He classified animals on the basis of their habitats – land, water and air.
But it can be easily observed that the animals that live at a particular habitat say land are still so different from each other.
Therefore it was decided to classify the living organisms on the basis of a hierarchy.
This hierarchical classification was based on the similarities and dissimilarities in the characteristics of the living organisms.
Organisms having similar characteristics were placed in a similar category.
Why do we need to classify organisms?
1. If we classify organisms into several categories it will be easier for us to study them.
2. It will help us in understanding how did these organisms evolve.
3. We can also understand how different organisms are related to each other.
4. We can learn why different organisms are found at distinct geographical conditions.
What is evolution?
Over a course of time the living organisms accumulate changes. These changes could be in their body type or size or their features. These changes allow them to survive better with the change in environment. This is called Evolution. This concept was introduced by Charles Darwin.
Primitive and Advanced Organisms
Primitive Organisms are the ones that have an ancient or body design. Their bodies haven't undergone many changes with time. They are called ‘Lower’ organisms as well.
The Advanced Organisms are those who have recently acquired body changes. They are also called as ‘Higher’ organisms.