Q8. What is meant by the term ‘species’? Discuss its meaning in higher plants and animals and in bacteria.

A species is the basic unit of classification, defined as a group of organisms capable of interbreeding and producing fertile offspring under natural conditions. In higher plants and animals: Species are defined based on reproductive isolation and the ability to interbreed. In bacteria: Since reproduction is asexual, species are defined based on genetic similarity, biochemical characteristics, and DNA homology.