how many of categories are there to classify an organism

Options

A. 4
B. 5
C. 7
D. 8

Answer

To determine how many categories are there to classify an organism, we can refer to the taxonomical hierarchy, which is a systematic framework used in biological classification. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of the classification categories:

1. **Kingdom**: This is the highest taxonomic rank. All living organisms are classified into one of the kingdoms, such as Animalia, Plantae, Fungi, etc.

2. **Phylum**: Below the kingdom, organisms are grouped into phyla (plural of phylum). For animals, this is the term used, while for plants, the equivalent term is division.

3. **Class**: Each phylum is further divided into classes. For example, within the phylum Chordata, there are classes such as Mammalia (mammals) and Aves (birds).

4. **Order**: Classes are divided into orders. For instance, the class Mammalia includes orders like Carnivora (carnivores) and Primates.

5. **Family**: Orders are further divided into families. For example, the order Carnivora includes families such as Felidae (cats) and Canidae (dogs).

6. **Genus**: Each family is divided into genera (plural of genus). For example, the family Felidae includes genera like Panthera (big cats) and Felis (small cats).

7. **Species**: This is the most specific level of classification. A species is a group of organisms that can interbreed and produce fertile offspring. For example, Panthera leo refers to the lion species.

In summary, the major categories (or taxa) used in the taxonomical hierarchy are:
1. Kingdom
2. Phylum
3. Class
4. Order
5. Family
6. Genus
7. Species

Thus, there are **7 major categories** to classify an organism.

**Final Answer**: 7