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Question #46918
The Question
A mixotrophic protist was validly published under the Botanical Code (ICN) as Alga motilis in 1860. Decades later, a zoologist, observing its heterotrophic behavior, classified the exact same organism under the Zoological Code (ICZN) as Protozoon flagellata. Modern taxonomy places it in Kingdom Protista. Based on the rules resolving jurisdictional friction between nomenclature codes, which statement correctly identifies the valid scientific name and the underlying principle?
Options
- A.
Protozoon flagellata is valid because the ICZN strictly prohibits inter-code homonymy, automatically invalidating the earlier botanical name.
- B.
Alga motilis remains the valid name due to the Principle of Priority, which retains the earliest validly published name even if the organism's kingdom classification shifts.
- C.
Both names enter a taxonomic void due to the 'Homonym rule', requiring a completely new binomial designation to prevent systematic duplication.
- D.
The generic name Alga is combined with the specific epithet flagellata to satisfy the independent rules of both the ICN and ICZN.
Check Your Answer
Correct Answer
Step-by-Step Solution
Explanation
How the Examiner Thinks
Comparative_Analysis
Sharpen your ability to evaluate multiple scenarios and distinguish between competing potential answers.
Concepts Behind This Question
ICBN|ICZN|Systematic Classification Scope
Why This Question Is Tricky
Common Mistakes
Conceptual Pivot: Students often misunderstand the boundary and interaction between ICN and ICZN.
A common misconception is that changing an organism's kingdom (e.g., Plant to Protist/Animal) invalidates its historical botanical name.
The question tests the absolute nature of the 'Principle of Priority' and clarifies that 'Homonyms' refer to identical names for different organisms, not synonymous names for the same organism.
Quick Facts About This Question
Question Information
| Subject | Biology |
| Chapter | The Living World - Class 11 |
| Concept | Botanical and Zoological Codes |
| Difficulty | 8 |
| Cognitive Load | 5 |
| Target Solve Time | 120 sec |
| Access | Free |