Question:

The main criteria used for Five Kingdom Classification proposed by R.H. Whittaker (1969) included :
A. Cell structure
B. Body organization
C. Presence of flagellum
D. Reproduction
E. Phylogenetic relationships Choose the correct answer from the options given below :

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To remember the 5 criteria: Cell, Body, Nutrition, Reproduction, Phylogeny. (Clever Boys Never Read Poetry).
Updated On: May 3, 2026
  • A, B, C, D and E
  • A, B, D and E only
  • B, C and D only
  • A, B and E only
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The Correct Option is B

Solution and Explanation

R.H. Whittaker's Five Kingdom Classification (Monera, Protista, Fungi, Plantae, and Animalia) was based on several sophisticated scientific criteria:
Cell structure (A): Distinguishing between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cell types.
Body organization (B): Complexity of the organism (unicellular vs. multicellular/tissue/organ levels).
Mode of nutrition: (Not listed in the prompt but a primary criterion).
Reproduction (D): Methods of producing offspring.
Phylogenetic relationships (E): Evolutionary history and ancestry. Whittaker did not use the presence of a flagellum (C) as a primary criterion for defining the five kingdoms. Therefore, statements A, B, D, and E are the correct ones.
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