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Multiple Choice
A genus can best be defined as:
A
The highest taxonomic rank in biological classification
B
A group of families sharing similar characteristics
C
A group of organisms that can interbreed and produce fertile offspring
D
A group of closely related species that share a common ancestor
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Begin by understanding the concept of taxonomy, which is the science of classifying organisms into hierarchical categories based on shared characteristics.
Step 2: Recognize that a genus is one of the taxonomic ranks in biological classification, positioned above species and below family.
Step 3: Clarify that a genus consists of closely related species that share a common ancestor, emphasizing the evolutionary relationship between these species.
Step 4: Eliminate incorrect options by analyzing their definitions: for example, 'The highest taxonomic rank' refers to domain, not genus; 'A group of families sharing similar characteristics' refers to order; and 'A group of organisms that can interbreed and produce fertile offspring' defines species, not genus.
Step 5: Conclude that the correct definition of a genus is 'A group of closely related species that share a common ancestor,' as it aligns with the principles of taxonomy and evolutionary biology.