# Define the term 'species' and explain why it can sometimes be difficult to classify an organism into a species.

> Eduqas GCSE Biology — 2.1.1 Classification · Define and Explain · 4 marks

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. A species is a group of organisms that can interbreed / reproduce with one another
2. to produce fertile offspring
3. Some organisms that appear very similar may be classified as different species / it can be hard to tell from appearance alone whether organisms belong to the same species
4. It is not always possible to observe whether two organisms can produce fertile offspring / some organisms reproduce asexually so the breeding criterion cannot be applied

## Key terms

- [species](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/species)

## Related

- [Revision notes for Eduqas GCSE Biology](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Define and Explain" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
- [Practice this with AI marking (free)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/start)

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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/define-the-term-species-and-explain-44efb605) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.