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What do scientists most often use to form the basis for biological classification?

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Answer:

Step-by-step explanation:

Scientists most often use the morphological and genetic characteristics of organisms to form the basis for biological classification. Morphological characteristics refer to an organism's physical features, such as its size, shape, color, and structure. Genetic characteristics refer to an organism's genetic makeup, including its DNA sequence and other molecular features.

In the past, scientists relied primarily on morphological characteristics to classify organisms. They would group organisms together based on similarities in physical appearance and structure. For example, birds and bats were once classified together based on their ability to fly, despite the fact that birds are warm-blooded and have feathers while bats are mammals with fur and produce milk for their young.

Today, with advances in technology and our understanding of genetics, scientists use a combination of morphological and genetic characteristics to classify organisms. DNA sequencing and other molecular techniques can provide insight into the evolutionary relationships between organisms, and allow for a more accurate classification system. For example, genetic analysis has led to the reclassification of some organisms that were once thought to be closely related based on their physical appearance, but are now known to be more distantly related based on their genetic makeup.

Overall, the goal of biological classification is to create a system that accurately reflects the evolutionary relationships between organisms and helps us better understand the diversity of life on Earth.

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