You are here
π‘ A library with no shelves
Imagine a library where thousands of books lie scattered on the floor. Finding one would be hopeless. Classification gives life’s millions of species their ‘shelves’.
In this Activity, we will read a case study of the Pakke Tiger Reserve to see why classifying species helps us understand biodiversity.
- Read the case study of the Pakke Tiger Reserve in Arunachal Pradesh, which records nearly 300 bird species.
- Note that Pakke supports four hornbill species — Rufous-necked, Oriental Pied, Great and Wreathed (Fig. 12.3).
- Discuss how scientists keep track of so many species.
- Discuss what features distinguish the similar-looking hornbills, and what would happen if the large old nesting trees disappeared.
What we observe
Grouping organisms by similarities and differences —
biological classification
— organises information and helps us study vast diversity systematically.
What is biological classification and why do we need it?
- Biological classification is the scientific system of grouping living organisms by their similarities and/or differences.
- The Earth has millions of organisms; classifying them systematically helps us understand them better.
- It organises information, shows relationships among organisms and lets us study life in a systematic manner.
How does biological classification help us?
- It makes the study of living organisms organised and systematic , and helps us see similarities and differences.
- It shows how organisms are related and interact, and helps in identifying and naming newly discovered organisms.
- It supports biodiversity conservation by flagging organisms under threat of extinction, and lets scientists worldwide discuss organisms using a common system.
