Phylum

Definition

A phylum is a level of classification in the biological taxonomy that groups together organisms with a similar basic body plan or significant shared characteristics. It is one of the major divisions below the kingdom level and above the class level in the hierarchy of life.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Phyla are used to group organisms that share a general body plan or structural features.
2. In animal classification, examples of phyla include Arthropoda, Chordata, and Mollusca.
3. The concept of phylum was introduced by German biologist Ernst Haeckel in the 19th century.
4. Plants use a similar classification level called 'divisions' instead of phylum.
5. Modern classification systems often use genetic data to determine phyla relationships.

Review Questions

• What are some common examples of animal phyla?
• Who introduced the concept of phylum?
• How do plants' classifications differ from animals at this taxonomic level?

Related terms

Kingdom:

A higher taxonomic rank than phylum, grouping together all forms of life having fundamental similarities.

Class:

A rank below phylum that groups organisms sharing even more specific characteristics.

Taxonomy:

The science of classifying organisms into hierarchical groups based on their relationships and characteristics.