Dozens of potato varieties exist, differing from each other in potato-tuber size, skin color, flesh color, and shape. One might construct a classification of potatoes based on these morphological traits. Which of these criticisms of such a classification scheme is most likely to come from an adherent of the phylocode method of classification?
A)Flesh color, rather than skin color, is a valid trait to use for classification because it is less susceptible to change with the age of the tuber.
B)Flower color is a better classification criterion, because below-ground tubers can be influenced by minerals in the soil as much as by their genes.
C)A more useful classification would codify potatoes based on the texture and flavor of their flesh, because this is what humans are concerned with.
D)The most accurate phylogenetic code is that of Linnaeus. Classify potatoes based on Linnaean principles; not according to their color.
E)The only biologically valid classification of potato varieties is one that accurately reflects their genetic and evolutionary relatedness.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The phylocode method of classification is based on evolutionary relatedness and genetic relationships, so an adherent of this method would likely argue that the only biologically valid way to classify potato varieties is based on their genetic and evolutionary relatedness, rather than solely on morphological traits like skin color, flesh color, or shape.

Dozens of Potato Varieties Exist, Differing from Each Other in Potato-Tuber