The fundamental taxonomic category is (basic unit is)

Options

A. Family
B. Class
C. Genus
D. Species

Answer

To answer the question regarding the fundamental taxonomic category, let's break it down step by step:

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding Taxonomy**: Taxonomy is the science of classification of living organisms. It involves organizing species into hierarchical categories based on shared characteristics.

2. **Taxonomic Hierarchy**: The taxonomic hierarchy consists of several levels, starting from the broadest category to the most specific. The main levels are:
- Kingdom
- Phylum (or Division)
- Class
- Order
- Family
- Genus
- Species

3. **Identifying the Fundamental Unit**: Among these categories, the species is considered the most fundamental or basic unit of classification. This is because:
- A species is defined as a group of organisms that can interbreed and produce fertile offspring.
- It represents a natural population or a group of populations that are genetically distinct.

4. **Elimination of Other Options**:
- **Family**: This is a higher taxonomic category that includes related genera (plural of genus).
- **Class**: This is a broader category that includes related orders.
- **Genus**: This includes related species but is not the most fundamental unit.

5. **Conclusion**: Since species is the lowest rank in the taxonomic hierarchy and is the basic unit of classification, the correct answer is **species**.

### Final Answer:
The fundamental taxonomic category is **species**.

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