What characteristics are used to classify plants and animals?

Plants and animals are classified by observing their similarities and differences in physical features, structures, and biological characteristics. These characteristics help scientists group organisms in a systematic way.

Plants can be classified based on features such as height, stem type, root system, leaf structure, venation pattern, flowers, and seeds. For example, plants may be grouped as herbs, shrubs, and trees based on their size and stem characteristics.

Animals can be classified using features such as body structure, body covering, movement, habitat, food habits, and presence or absence of certain body parts. Studying these characteristics helps identify different organisms and understand relationships among various life forms.