Which of the following is not one of the main characteristics that is used to classify organisms?

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BlackTom AI · Accepted Answer

To tackle this question, I will evaluate each option in turn and explain why it either does or does not fit as a main characteristic used to classify organisms.
Option a: Temperature regulation. Temperature regulation is a physiological feature that can vary among organisms and is often considered when describing adaptations and general biology, but it is not typically a primary taxonomic characteristic used to broadly classify organisms (which relies more on structural, developmental, and reproductive traits). Some classifications may discuss thermoregulation strategies, yet it is not a foundational criterion for the major classification schemes.
Option b: Brain development. Brain development as a criterion is generally not used to classify organisms in the traditional taxonomic sense. Classification tends to focus on anatomical features, life cycles, reproductive methods, and other systematic traits rather than the degree or presence of brain development alone, which can vary widely within groups and does not provide a stable, cross-species criterion for taxonomy.
Option c: Life cycles. Life cycles are a core feature in many groups and are widely used in taxonomy and classification (e.g., metamorphosis in insects, alternation of generations in plants and some animals). Different life cycle patterns can be diagnostic for certain lineages and are a standard criterion in classifications, making this a main characteristic.
Option d: Skull type. Skull morphology, including the structure of the skull and its bones, is a classic and primary characteristic used in vertebrate classification, including major groupings such as mammals, reptiles, and others. It is a foundational anatomical criterion in taxonomy.
Option e: Excretory product. Excretory products (such as the type of nitrogenous waste and excretory organs) are used in some taxonomic discussions, particularly when distinguishing certain groups (e.g., aquatic vs. terrestrial organisms, or specific organ systems). While not always the sole determinant, these features contribute to classification frameworks.
In summary, options c (Life cycles) and d (Skull type) are well-established main characteristics used in classifying organisms, option e (Excretory product) can play a supporting role, option a (Temperature regulation) relates to physiology and adaptation but is not a primary taxonomic criterion, and option b (Brain development) is not used as a primary characteristic for broad classification. Therefore, the statement that does not belong as a main characteristic is brain development, which corresponds to option b.

BIO 181 (001&002) FALL 2025 FA25: Cumulative Exam 4 covers the most important content from Units 1-4: You can do this!!! : ) [Grade is out of 150/900 pts, the same am't of pts for the active learning "easy points" classwork.]

Which of the following is not one of the main characteristics that is used to classify organisms?

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