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Types of Taxonomy, Definition, Types and Importance for NEET Exam

Types of Taxonomy, This article aims to provide an overview of types of taxonomy, including its definition, various types, importance, and related MCQs with answers.
authorImageKrati Saraswat4 Jun, 2025
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Types of Taxonomy

Taxonomy is the scientific method of classifying and naming organisms, helping us understand the diversity and evolutionary connections among species. Different types of taxonomy, including Classical, Phylogenetic, Numerical, and Cytotaxonomy, each use unique approaches like morphology, evolutionary history, quantitative data, and chromosomal features to categorize life forms. Types of taxonomy is a significant area within this field, focusing on the different approaches and methods used to classify life forms. For NEET  aspirants, it is crucial to understand the types of taxonomy, as it plays an integral role in biology.

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Types of Taxonomy

The types of taxonomy highlight the various methods scientists use to categorize and understand living organisms. Different approaches have been developed over time to classify species based on their characteristics, evolutionary history, and genetic makeup. These types include classical taxonomy, numerical taxonomy, phylogenetic taxonomy, and others, each offering unique insights and methods.

Definition of Taxonomy

Taxonomy is defined as the science of classifying and naming organisms. It involves identifying, describing, and grouping organisms based on shared characteristics, allowing scientists to better understand the connections between different life forms. Through taxonomy, organisms are arranged into hierarchical levels, making it easier for students to study and remember complex relationships among species.

Types of Taxonomy

There are several types of taxonomy, each with a unique approach to classifying organisms. Here are the primary types in detail:

Classical Taxonomy

Classical taxonomy, also known as traditional taxonomy, is based on morphological and anatomical characteristics. It focuses on physical traits such as shape, structure, and size to classify organisms. Scientists use visible characteristics to categorize species into groups, relying heavily on observations. Although classical taxonomy has limitations due to its reliance on physical traits alone, it laid the foundation for modern classification methods.

Phylogenetic Taxonomy

Phylogenetic taxonomy classifies organisms based on their evolutionary history and relationships. It considers genetic information, fossil records, and ancestral connections to place species on a phylogenetic tree. This type of taxonomy shows how different species evolved from common ancestors, making it a more accurate method for understanding biological diversity.

Numerical Taxonomy

Numerical taxonomy, also known as phenetics, uses statistical methods to classify organisms based on numerous characteristics. In this approach, each trait is given equal weight, and mathematical models help determine relationships among species. Numerical taxonomy helps provide a quantitative approach, but it may overlook the importance of certain biological traits.

Cytotaxonomy

Cytotaxonomy classifies organisms based on cellular and chromosomal characteristics. Scientists examine the number, structure, and shape of chromosomes to categorize species. This type of taxonomy is useful in identifying species at a genetic level and is especially helpful in studying plants, where chromosomal information can reveal new species and genetic variations.

Chemotaxonomy

Chemotaxonomy uses biochemical characteristics, such as the presence of certain enzymes, proteins, or secondary metabolites, to classify organisms. This type of taxonomy is particularly useful for distinguishing between species that may look similar morphologically but differ at the chemical level. Chemotaxonomy is commonly used in plant studies to identify relationships based on unique chemical compounds. 

Importance of Taxonomy

Taxonomy is crucial for several reasons, especially in biology and environmental studies:
  • Understanding Biodiversity: Taxonomy helps scientists identify and document the vast diversity of life on Earth, providing a systematic approach to studying ecosystems and species interactions.
  • Facilitating Research : Proper classification makes it easier for scientists to communicate about specific organisms and carry out targeted research, especially in fields like genetics, conservation, and agriculture.
  • Environmental Conservation : Taxonomy aids in identifying endangered species and helps design conservation efforts. Knowing the classification of species allows better planning to protect biodiversity.
  • Agricultural and Medical Applications : Taxonomy helps in identifying species that are beneficial or harmful to agriculture. In medicine, it is useful in identifying pathogens, thereby aiding in disease prevention and treatment development.

MCQs of Types of Taxonomy

Q1. Which of the following statements are true about Numerical taxonomy?

  1. Equal importance given to each character.
  2. Based on all observable characters.
  3. Easily carried out using computers.
  4. At the same time, only a few characters can be considered.
  1. A, B, and D
  2. B, C, and D
  3. A, C, and D
  4. A, B, and C

Q2. Classification based on cytological information like chromosome number, structure, and behavior is called:

  1. Numerical taxonomy
  2. Cytotaxonomy
  3. Chemotaxonomy
  4. Nuclear taxonomy

Answers of MCQs of Types of Taxonomy

Ans1 . A, B, and C, Ans2 . Cytotaxonomy Physics Wallah (PW) offers the Best NEET Online Coaching in India, designed to make quality education accessible to all aspiring medical students.
NEET Exam Important Links
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NEET Biology MCQ NEET Biology Chapter wise Weightage
NEET Biology Notes NEET Previous Year Question papers

Types of Taxonomy FAQs

Q. What is taxonomy?

Ans. Taxonomy is the science of classifying and naming organisms based on shared characteristics.

Q. What is the difference between classical and phylogenetic taxonomy?

Ans. Classical taxonomy relies on physical characteristics, while phylogenetic taxonomy uses evolutionary history and genetic information for classification.

Q. How does numerical taxonomy differ from classical taxonomy?

Ans. Numerical taxonomy uses mathematical models and numeric values to classify organisms, while classical taxonomy relies mainly on physical traits for classification.

Q. Why is phylogenetic taxonomy important?

Ans. Phylogenetic taxonomy reveals evolutionary relationships between species, helping scientists understand the genetic and evolutionary links among organisms.

Q. What are the types of Bloom's Taxonomy?

Ans. Bloom's Taxonomy has six levels: Remember, Understand, Apply, Analyze, Evaluate, and Create. These levels help structure learning objectives, moving from basic recall to higher-order thinking skills.
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