Which concept defines species as groups of organisms with shared traits?

Prepare for the IB Diploma Biology Test. Study with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question offers hints and explanations. Get ready to ace your exam!

The morphological species concept defines species based on shared physical characteristics, or traits, of organisms. This concept is grounded in the observation that members of the same species typically exhibit a specific set of morphological features, such as size, shape, structure, and coloration, which distinguishes them from members of other species. By categorizing organisms based on these observable traits, scientists can classify and identify species in a consistent manner.

In this context, "morphological" emphasizes the importance of form and structure in defining species boundaries. This concept is particularly useful for classifying organisms, especially when other methods, such as genetic analysis or ecological observations, may be difficult to apply or unavailable, such as with fossilized remains.

The other choices do not pertain directly to the definition of species based on shared traits. "Multipotent" refers to a type of stem cell capable of differentiating into multiple cell types, "multicellular" describes organisms composed of multiple cells, and "morphology" refers to the study of form and structure, but does not define a species in itself.

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