Observing Nature
When we step outside for a nature walk, we observe a vast variety of life. From tiny ants to tall trees, every living thing is unique.
- Plants: Vary in height, stem type, leaf shape, and flower color.
- Animals: Vary in size, food habits, habitats, and movement.
This variety of life in a specific region is called Biodiversity.
Why Do We Group Things?
Imagine a library where books are thrown in a pile. It would be impossible to find a specific book. Similarly, with millions of living organisms, studying them one by one is difficult.
Tip
Definition: Grouping (or Classification) is the method of arranging things into categories based on their common features (similarities) and differences.
Benefits of Grouping:
- Makes it easier to study organisms.
- Helps us understand relationships between different groups.
- Allows us to predict features of an organism if we know its group.
Criteria for Grouping
We can group plants and animals based on simple observable features:
- Plants: Height (tall/short), Stem (hard/soft), Presence of flowers.
- Animals: Habitat (Land/Water), Food (Herbivore/Carnivore), Movement (Walk/Fly/Swim).