The largest taxonomic group is the Kingdom.
The system of biological classification, also known as taxonomy, organizes living organisms into hierarchical groups based on their evolutionary relationships and shared characteristics. These groups, called taxa (singular: taxon), range from broad, inclusive categories to more specific and exclusive ones.
Here's a breakdown of the major taxonomic ranks in descending order:
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Kingdom: The broadest category, grouping organisms based on very general characteristics. Examples include Kingdom Animalia (animals), Kingdom Plantae (plants), Kingdom Fungi (fungi), Kingdom Protista (protists), and Kingdom Monera (bacteria).
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Phylum: Organisms within a kingdom are further divided into phyla (singular: phylum) based on more specific body plans and characteristics.
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Class: A phylum is divided into classes, representing further refinements of shared traits.
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Order: Classes are broken down into orders, representing groups with even more similarities.
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Family: Orders are divided into families, which group closely related genera.
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Genus: A genus (plural: genera) includes closely related species.
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Species: The most specific taxonomic rank, representing a group of organisms that can interbreed and produce fertile offspring.
Therefore, the kingdom represents the highest and most inclusive level of classification, making it the largest taxonomic group. Taxon is a classification unit that represents the category or rank within the classifying hierarchy.
