What is the Difference Between Species and Strain?

The main difference between species and strain lies in their classification and the level of genetic diversity within each group.

• Species: A species is the largest group of organisms in which any two individuals can breed and produce fertile offspring. It is the basic taxonomic unit of classification, and species are defined based on shared genetic, morphological, and behavioral characteristics. Organisms within a species are influenced by natural selection and can breed to produce fertile offspring.
• Strain: A strain is a sub-type or genetic variant of a biological species. It is a designated group of offspring that are either descended from a modified plant or result from genetic mutation. Strains are characterized by specific intent for genetic isolation and are often seen as inherently artificial concepts. They are commonly observed in microbiology, virology, botany, and with rodents used in experimental studies.

In summary, a species is a larger group of organisms with shared characteristics, while a strain is a sub-type or genetic variant within a species. Stains often possess unique genetic characteristics that differentiate them from other strains within the same species.

Comparative Table: Species vs Strain

Here is a table comparing the differences between species and strains:

In summary, a species is a group of organisms that share common traits and can reproduce with each other, while a strain is a sub-group within a species that may have unique traits or characteristics due to selective breeding or mutation. Strain is generally considered a lower taxonomic level compared to a species.