Jain Biology: Classification

Since we have to deal with hundreds of thousands of different varieties of living organisms, the systematic study demands an efficient and fool-proof system of classification, i.e., arrangement of all varieties (of animals and plants) in a series of groups). Both Biology and Scriptures, have their own systems of classification.

Living organisms which inhabit this earth exhibit a great variety of form, size, and structure. Plants range from simple algae (microscopic w atei plants) and fungi to huge trees like banyan and pines; while animals range from simple protozoa (a single—cell led microscopic organism) and sponges to elephants and whales. In order to understand such diverse groups of plants and animals, it is necessary to group or classify them in a logical system. The branch of biology which deals with classification, identification and naming of plants and animals is called taxonomy.