Question

state the merits of whittaker's method of classification

Answer 1

--Merits of R. H. Whittaker 5 Kingdom Classification

1.          This system of classification looks more scientific and natural because of the following considerations:

2.         It is largely the most accepted system of modern classification mainly because of the phylogenetic placing of different groups of living organisms

3.        Separation of prokaryotes into an independent kingdom is justifiable because they differ from all other organisms in their general organization.

4.        Grouping of all unicellular eukaryotes under the kingdom Protista has solved many problems, particularly related to the position of organisms like Euglena.

5.       Elevation of the group fungi to the status of a kingdom is justifiable since fungi totally differ from other primitive eukaryotes like algae and protozoans.

6.         The kingdoms plantae and animalia are now more homogeneous groups than they were in the two kingdom classification as it shows the phylogeny of different life styles.

7.        The five-kingdom classification gives a cear indication of cellular organization and modes of nutrition, the characters which appeared very early in the evolution of life.

Answer 2

R.H. Whittaker was responsible for the 5 kingdom classification.

Merits:

• This system is accepted everywhere due to the phylogenetic placing of different groups of living organisms scientifically.
• The prokaryotes are placed in an individual kingdom.
• Fungi are placed in a separate kingdom due to its characteristics.
• The evolution is clearly explained with more information from  cellular organization, characteristics and modes of nutrition.  
• Kingdom protista contained all unicellular eukaryotes.