Biological Classification Table
Master the Five Kingdom Classification. Explore Taxonomy Hierarchies, Cell Organelles, and Tissues in one comprehensive hub.
Monera
Protista
Fungi
Plantae
Animalia
History of Classification
Before R.H. Whittaker proposed the Five Kingdom system in 1969, organisms were simply divided into two kingdoms: Plantae and Animalia (Carolus Linnaeus). This old system failed to distinguish between eukaryotes and prokaryotes, or unicellular or multicellular organisms. Whittaker's system solved these issues by introducing Cell Structure, Thallus Organization, and Mode of Nutrition as key criteria.
How to use this tool
- 1Search: Type keywords like "Bacteria" or "Heterotrophic" to filter the table immediately.
- 2Switch Tabs: Explore different topics like "Taxonomy" or "Cell Organelles" using the top navigation bar.
- 3Expand: In Card view, click on any kingdom card to reveal additional details like examples.
Understanding the Five Kingdoms
Biological classification is more than just naming things; it is about understanding the evolutionary relationships between organisms. The table above summarizes the key differences. Let's break down each kingdom in detail.
1. Kingdom Monera (Prokaryotes)
The most primitive organisms found everywhere.
- Cell Type: Prokaryotic (No nucleus)
- Examples: Bacteria, Blue-green algae
2. Kingdom Protista (Unicellular Eukaryotes)
Link between Monera and other kingdoms.
- Cell Type: Eukaryotic (Has nucleus)
- Examples: Amoeba, Paramecium
3. Kingdom Fungi (Heterotrophs)
Multicellular decomposers with Chitin cell walls.
- Nutrition: Saprophytic or Parasitic
- Examples: Yeast, Mushroom
4. Kingdom Plantae & Animalia
Complex multicellular organisms.
- Plantae: Autotrophs (Photosynthesis)
- Animalia: Heterotrophs (Holozoic)
Why Use This Classification Tool?
Quick Comparison
Instantly compare cell walls, nutrition modes, and examples side-by-side.
Exam Revision
Ideal for NEET and high school biology students for active recall.
Interactive Learning
Filter and sort to understand relationships better than a static textbook.
Common Classification Terms
Did you know?
The Three-Domain System is a newer classification that sits above kingdoms. It divides life into Archaea, Bacteria, and Eukarya.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Biological Classification?
Biological classification is the scientific procedure of arranging organisms into groups and subgroups based on their similarities and dissimilarities, placing them in a hierarchy of categories.
Who proposed the Five Kingdom Classification?
R.H. Whittaker proposed the Five Kingdom Classification in 1969. This system replaced the earlier two-kingdom and three-kingdom systems.
What are the basis of the Five Kingdom Classification?
The main criteria for classification used by Whittaker include: (1) Cell structure (prokaryotic vs eukaryotic), (2) Body organization (unicellular vs multicellular), (3) Mode of nutrition (autotrophic vs heterotrophic), (4) Reproduction, and (5) Phylogenetic relationships.
Why are Fungi placed in a separate kingdom?
Fungi are placed in a separate kingdom because they are heterotrophic (specifically saprophytic), unlike plants which are autotrophic. Also, their cell walls contain chitin, whereas plant cell walls are made of cellulose.
What is the difference between Monera and Protista?
The primary difference is the cell type. Kingdom Monera consists of prokaryotic organisms (lacking a defined nucleus), while Kingdom Protista consists of unicellular eukaryotic organisms (having a well-defined nucleus).
Which kingdom do viruses belong to?
Viruses do not fit into any of the five kingdoms because they are not considered truly "living" outside a host. They are acellular entities and do not have a cellular structure like organisms in the five kingdoms.
What are Archaebacteria and Eubacteria?
These are the two main groups under Kingdom Monera. Archaebacteria live in harsh habitats (like hot springs), while Eubacteria are "true bacteria" found everywhere.
What is the role of Cyanobacteria?
Cyanobacteria (Blue-green algae) are photosynthetic autotrophs. They played a crucial role in oxygenating the Earth's early atmosphere and are important producers in aquatic environments.
Why is standardizing classification important?
Classification helps in the identification of known organisms, study of phylogeny (evolutionary history), and eliminates confusion created by local names, providing a universal language for biologists.
Do any organisms share characteristics of both Plants and Animals?
Yes, Euglena (Kingdom Protista) shares features of both. It has chlorophyll like plants for photosynthesis in light, but behaves like a heterotroph (animal-like) in the absence of light.