On what is the Artificial System of Classification based?

Correct answer: Only one or a few superficial external characters

Correct answer: A. An artificial classification system selects only one or a small number of easily observed characters, often superficial external features such as habit, shape, colour, or another convenient trait. It does not attempt to represent all similarities or common ancestry. B is incorrect because complete internal anatomy is a much broader source of evidence and is not the defining basis of an artificial system. C is incorrect because evolutionary relationships are the basis of phylogenetic classification. D is incorrect because genetic characters are molecular evidence used in modern comparative and evolutionary classification. Some historical systems associated with Linnaeus are described as artificial because they relied on selected characters, but this does not mean every feature of his work had no scientific value. Memory cue: artificial classification = “few convenient characters”; natural classification = “many kinds of evidence”; phylogenetic classification = “evolutionary history.”