Question

The term classification was coined by
A. Theophrastus
B. A.P.de.candolle
C. Aristotle
D. Linnaeus

Answer 1

Hint: Classification helps in the identification of species, and in devising and using keys for identifying organisms. Systematics and taxonomy are important for all branches of basic and applied biology. Classifying a group of species, naming them, and understanding their evolutionary relationship is called revision of the group.

Complete step-by-step answer:
1. Theophrastus categorized plants into four categories: trees, shrubs, under shrubs, and herbs of their habitat, form, and texture. He named and described 480 plants in his book "Historia Plantarum".
2. Theophrastus coined the term classification. The two-kingdom classification was suggested by Carolus Linnaeus in 1758 after the work of Theophrastus. He divided the living world into two kingdoms: Plantae and Animalia.
The term taxonomy was coined by A.P.de.Candolle.

Additional information: Biological classification is the scientific ordering of organisms (bacteria, protists, fungi, plants, and animals) in a hierarchical series of groups on the basis of their relationships. The biological classification has three main objectives :
(i)To recognize and precisely describe the basic units of classification, i.e. species.
(ii) To devise an appropriate method of assigning the basic units (species) into an ascending series of groups on the basis of their similarities and relationships.
(iii) To indicate the phylogeny of the organism.

So, the correct answer is “Option A. Theophrastus”.

Note: R.H. Whittaker, proposed five kingdom classification to show the phylogenetic relationships of the organisms. Whitaker divided the living world into five kingdoms: Monera, Protista, Fungi, Animalia, and Plantae.