Choose the correct descending sequence of the following taxonomic categories using the codes given below :
(A) Genus (B) Order (C) Class (D) Species (E) Family

Question

Accepted Answer

The task is to determine the correct descending sequence of taxonomic categories from the given options. The correct answer is Option 3: CBEAD. Let's break down why this sequence is correct and why the other options are incorrect.

### Explanation for Option 3 (CBEAD):

1. **Class (C)**: This is the highest taxonomic category in the sequence provided. In biological classification, a class is a rank that is higher than order and family. It groups together related orders.

2. **Order (B)**: Following class, the next rank is order. An order is a group of related families. It is a more specific classification than class but broader than family.

3. **Family (E)**: After order, the next rank is family. A family groups together related genera (plural of genus). It is more specific than order but broader than genus.

4. **Genus (A)**: The genus is a rank below family. It groups together species that are closely related and very similar.

5. **Species (D)**: This is the most specific rank in the sequence. A species is a group of individuals that can interbreed and produce fertile offspring. It is the basic unit of biological classification.

### Why Other Options are Incorrect:

- **Option 1 (ECBDA)**: This sequence incorrectly places family (E) before class (C), which is not correct as class is a higher taxonomic rank than family.

- **Option 2 (EBCAD)**: This sequence starts with family (E) instead of class (C), which is incorrect because class is a broader category than family. Additionally, it places genus (A) before class (C), which is not the correct order.

- **Option 4 (CEBDA)**: This sequence incorrectly places genus (A) before species (D). In taxonomy, genus is a broader category than species, so species should come last.

In conclusion, Option 3 (CBEAD) correctly represents the descending order of taxonomic categories from the broadest to the most specific: Class, Order, Family, Genus, and Species. This sequence aligns with the standard hierarchy used in biological classification.