The biological species concept cannot be applied to fossils.Which alternate approach to identifying species would be most useful for classifying fossil organisms?
A) an approach based on use of ecological resources
B) an approach based on genetic history
C) an approach based on measurable physical traits
D) an approach based on molecular biology

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A approach based on measurable physical traits would be most useful for classifying fossil organisms, as this is often the only evidence that remains. This approach is known as the morphological species concept, which defines a species based on physical characteristics that distinguish it from other species. While genetic and molecular approaches are useful for identifying species in living organisms, they are not always applicable to fossils, which may not have DNA or other intact biomolecules. Ecological resource use may also provide some information about the behavior and habitat of fossil organisms, but this approach alone is unlikely to provide enough information to distinguish different species.

The Biological Species Concept Cannot Be Applied to Fossils