Concept of Classification

The concept of classification

The process of grouping organisms according to their similarities and differences is called classification. Organisms that are similar are placed in the same group. These similarities can be in terms of their evolutionary relationship or the way they carry out life processes such as feeding and reproduction.

The field of biology that deals with classifying organisms is called taxonomy. Organisms such as snails, orange trees, crocodiles, birds, lions, and baobab trees as shown in Figure belong to different groups.

Variety of living things (a) snail (b) orange tree (c) crocodile (d) birds (e) lion (f) baobab tree

Importance of classification

1. It makes the study of living things easier: By grouping organisms, it becomes simple to study their features, behaviors, and relationships.
2. It makes communication among biologists easier: Scientists across the world can understand each other better when they use the same classification system.
3. It provides a well-organized system: New organisms that are discovered can be easily placed into appropriate groups based on existing classification systems.
4. It makes identification of organisms easier: With classification keys and group characteristics, organisms can be quickly and accurately identified.
5. It helps in predicting characteristics: Organisms in the same group usually share features, so unknown traits can sometimes be predicted based on group membership.