Pandas belong to the family Ursidae, which is commonly known as the bear family. Scientifically, there are two main types of pandas: the giant panda and the red panda. The giant panda (scientific name: Ailuropoda melanoleuca) is the most recognized one, primarily due to its distinct black and white coloration.
The classification of the giant panda is as follows:
- Kingdom: Animalia
- Phylum: Chordata
- Class: Mammalia
- Order: Carnivora
- Family: Ursidae
- Genus: Ailuropoda
- Species: Ailuropoda melanoleuca
On the other hand, the red panda, which is smaller and has a reddish-brown fur, belongs to a different family called Ailuridae. Its classification is:
- Kingdom: Animalia
- Phylum: Chordata
- Class: Mammalia
- Order: Carnivora
- Family: Ailuridae
- Genus: Ailurus
- Species: Ailurus fulgens
Thus, while both the giant and red pandas are part of the carnivorous order, they are classified under different families. The giant panda primarily feeds on bamboo, which makes it unique among bears, while the red panda has a more varied diet that includes fruits, berries, and insects.