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Question #46909
The Question
A taxonomist is revising the classification of a primitive benthic chordate based on new phylogenetic data regarding its notochord development. The organism was originally described and named Alpha minor in 1902. In 1940, another scientist unknowingly described the exact same species as Gamma major. Recent cladistic analysis reveals the species actually belongs to the phylogenetically older genus Epsilon (established 1890). According to the rules of Binomial Nomenclature, which of the following statements is NOT correct?
Options
- A.
The valid scientific name of the organism must be updated to Epsilon minor.
- B.
The specific epithet 'minor' is retained under the Principle of Priority, despite the change in generic assignment.
- C.
The binomial name Gamma major becomes a junior synonym and is invalid for this species.
- D.
A new specific epithet must be coined to accurately reflect the organism's revised evolutionary hierarchy within genus Epsilon.
Check Your Answer
Correct Answer
Step-by-Step Solution
Explanation
How the Examiner Thinks
Comparative_Analysis
Sharpen your ability to evaluate multiple scenarios and distinguish between competing potential answers.
Concepts Behind This Question
Binomial Nomenclature Rules|Chordata Fundamental Trio|Evolutionary Notochord Progression
Why This Question Is Tricky
Common Mistakes
Conceptual Pivot: Students often confuse morphological cladistics with nomenclatural priority.
The trap assumes that if an organism's evolutionary classification changes (e.g., moving to a 'higher' or 'older' genus based on notochord data), its specific epithet must also be rewritten to reflect this new biology.
However, the Principle of Priority mandates that the oldest valid specific epithet remains stable, acting as a historical identifier rather than a strictly descriptive biological term.
Quick Facts About This Question
Question Information
| Subject | Biology |
| Chapter | The Living World - Class 11 |
| Concept | Binomial Nomenclature Rules |
| Difficulty | 8 |
| Cognitive Load | 5 |
| Target Solve Time | 120 sec |
| Access | Free |