QUESTION 39 (4 marks)
The table shows selected taxonomic information for three hypothetical beetles.
a) State which pair shares the greatest number of listed taxonomic levels. [1 marks]
b) Write the binomial name of organism R using correct capitalisation. [1 marks]
c) Explain why belonging to the same genus does not demonstrate that two organisms are the same biological species. [2 marks]
Practice marking scheme
Answer
a) P and Q. b) Luminara rufa. c) A genus can contain multiple species; reproductive compatibility and isolation must be considered.
Working
P and Q share family and genus; R shares the family but belongs to a different genus. A binomial combines capitalised genus with lower-case species epithet, conventionally italicised. Taxonomic placement indicates relatedness, whereas the biological species concept concerns potential interbreeding and reproductive isolation.
Marking criteria
- Identifies P and Q. [1 mark]
- Writes Luminara rufa with correct genus/species capitalisation. [1 mark]
- States that a genus can contain multiple species. [1 mark]
- Links biological species membership to interbreeding and reproductive isolation. [1 mark]
Practice question aligned to the current QCAA syllabus; review the worked solution and marking criteria.
View the QCAA syllabusCompare your working with the guide above.