Page 14 - e-MODULE BIOLOGY ZALDY

F. Classification of living things

Living things as objects of biological study are very diverse. In order to make it easy
to learn, experts perform classifications to simplify it. The classification of living things is
the grouping of living things based on certain characteristics they have. The branch of
biology that studies the classification of living things is called taxonomy.
The classification of living things is carried out systematically and gradually.
Organisms that have certain characteristics in common are put into one group. From the
group members, other differences and similarities are sought to form smaller groups. It is
based on the study of evolution that organisms in one group have a close kinship. The more
characteristics the characteristics have, the closer the kinship is. For example snakes are
more closely related to lizards than to chickens. So by classifying living things, several
benefits can be obtained, including the following :
1. Simplify the various objects of study of biology so that it is easier to study them.
2. Can know the kinship relationship between one organism and another.

 Basics of Classification
Several basic classifications are used in classifying, among others, based on physical
characteristics, morphology, mode of reproduction, benefits, chromosomal
characteristics, content of genes in chromosomes, and content of biochemical
substances. Based on the basics of this classification, the classification system for living
things can be divided into natural systems classification, artificial systems
classification, phylogenetic systems classification, and modern systems classification.

1. Natural Systems Classification
Natural system classification is a classification to form taxons that are
natural (according to the will of nature). The basis used is the existence of
similarities in properties, especially morphological properties. Natural system
classification proposed by Aristotle. Aristotle classified organisms on earth into two
Kingdoms, namely animals and plants. Then, animals are grouped again based on
similarities in habitat and behavior, while plants are grouped again based on their
size and structure, for example tree plants (banyan, mango, orange, and coconut);
herbaceous plants (tomatoes, spinach, chilies, and eggplants); and shrubs (grass and
ginger).

tree

clump (ind. : perdu)
shrubs (ind. : semak)

Biology/X.1/2020
Nusaputera SHS 14