The terms ‘genus’ and ‘species’ are used in biological classification to organize and categorize living organisms. Here’s a simple explanation of the difference between the two:
**Genus:**
A genus is a rank in the biological classification system that groups together species that are closely related. It is a broader category than species. For example, the genus ‘Panthera’ includes species like lions, tigers, and leopards. These animals share many characteristics, which is why they are grouped under the same genus.
**Species:**
A species is the most specific rank in the biological classification system. It refers to a group of organisms that can interbreed and produce fertile offspring. For example, the lion is classified as ‘Panthera leo’, where ‘Panthera’ is the genus and ‘leo’ is the species. Each species has unique characteristics that distinguish it from other species within the same genus.
In summary, the genus is a broader category that includes multiple species, while the species is a more specific category that refers to a particular type of organism.