The following text is about philosophy of biology.
The species problem refers to the difficulty of defining what constitutes a species. The biological species concept—groups of interbreeding populations reproductively isolated from others—works for many animals but fails for asexual organisms and those that hybridize. Morphological concepts face the problem that similar appearances can arise independently (convergent evolution). Phylogenetic concepts based on evolutionary history face arbitrary decisions about where to draw lines in continuous ancestral trees. Different definitions yield different classifications, suggesting "species" may be a pragmatic category rather than a natural kind with sharp boundaries.
What does the species problem reveal about biological classification?
One definition perfectly captures the essence of species
Multiple definitions yield different classifications, suggesting species may be pragmatic categories
Scientists have reached consensus on the species concept
Evolution never produces categories at all
Correct Answer: B
Choice B is the correct answer. The text states "different definitions yield different classifications, suggesting 'species' may be a pragmatic category rather than a natural kind with sharp boundaries."
- Evidence: Different definitions produce different classifications.
- Reasoning: No single natural boundary exists.
- Conclusion: Species may be practical rather than natural categories.
Choice A is incorrect because each definition has problems. Choice C is incorrect because the problem persists. Choice D is incorrect because categories exist; their ontological status is questioned.