Question

What do you mean by a natural system of classification?

Answer 1

Hint:Biological classification is the scientific procedure that is done to arrange the organisms on the basis of similarities and dissimilarities. There are three main types of biological classification - artificial, phylogenetic and natural system of classification.

Complete answer:
Natural classification is a type of biological classification which is based on morphological characters, cytology, embryology, etc. of the plants. The natural system takes into consideration comparable analysis of a number of characters in order to bring out natural similarities and dissimilarities. It also establishes natural relationships between the species. The first natural system of plant classification was given by Bentham and Hooker.

The natural system of classification classifies organisms according to a relationship based on descent from a common ancestor. This classification also classifies the organisms based on their vegetative characters which are permanent and do not change with the environment.

The natural system has certain advantages over the artificial system of classification:
-It brings out natural relationships amongst organisms.
-It places only related organisms in a group.
-It focuses on the actual study of each and every organism.
-It focuses on comparative study.
-It also shows the phylogenetic relationships and the origin of different taxa.
-It prevents the coming together of unrelated organisms.

Note:It is to be noted that the artificial system of classification is based upon one or a few easily observable characteristics. It is highly useful in the field where quick identification of organisms is required.