Chapter: Classification – Domain Eukarya and Taxonomic Hierarchy
Future Focus Science Academy, Athara Hazari
https://en.wikipedia.org/Taxanomic Heirarchy
1. Domain Eukarya
The Domain Eukarya includes all organisms with eukaryotic cells, which are distinct from prokaryotic cells of Bacteria and Archaea.
General Characteristics of Domain Eukarya
· Cells are eukaryotic – contain a true nucleus enclosed by a nuclear membrane.
· Possess membrane-bound organelles: Mitochondria, Chloroplasts (in plants and algae), Endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi apparatus, Lysosomes, Peroxisomes.
· Cytoskeleton present – a complex network of microtubules, microfilaments, and intermediate filaments providing structural support, intracellular transport, and movement.
· DNA is arranged in multiple linear chromosomes inside the nucleus, associated with histone proteins.
· Most eukaryotes reproduce sexually (via meiosis and fertilization) and asexually (via mitosis).
· Multicellular eukaryotes show cell differentiation with specialized tissues and organs.
· Eukaryotes evolved through endosymbiosis – mitochondria and chloroplasts originated from engulfed prokaryotes.
1.2 Taxonomic Hierarchy
A hierarchical system used to classify living organisms. Each level is called a taxon (plural: taxa).
Main Taxonomic Levels:
· Domain – Highest rank (e.g., Archaea, Bacteria, Eukarya)
· Kingdom – Groups organisms with fundamental characteristics
· Phylum – Groups organisms with similar body plans
· Class – More specific traits
· Order – Based on additional features
· Family – Closely related organisms
· Genus – Very closely related species
· Species – Basic unit of classification
Example: Taxonomic Rank Comparison
Taxonomic Rank |
Human (Homo sapiens) |
Sparrow (Passer domesticus) |
Onion (Allium cepa) |
Domain |
Eukarya |
Eukarya |
Eukarya |
Kingdom |
Animalia |
Animalia |
Plantae |
Phylum |
Chordata |
Chordata |
Angiosperms |
Class |
Mammalia |
Aves |
Monocots |
Order |
Primates |
Passeriformes |
Asparagales |
Family |
Hominidae |
Passeridae |
Amaryllidaceae |
Genus |
Homo |
Passer |
Allium |
Species |
Homo sapiens |
Passer domesticus |
Allium cepa |
0 Comments