Equus caballus is the scientific name of which common domestic animal?

Introduction:
Questions on scientific names are common in biology and general science exams. They test familiarity with binomial nomenclature and the ability to connect Latin names with everyday animals. This question focuses on the name Equus caballus.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The scientific name provided is Equus caballus.
• The options list several domestic and related animals: horse, zebra, donkey, buffalo, and camel.
• We assume standard zoological naming conventions.

Concept / Approach:
In binomial nomenclature, the genus Equus includes horses, zebras, and asses. The species name caballus specifically refers to the domestic horse. Other members of the genus have different species names, such as Equus zebra or Equus asinus. Therefore, the combination Equus caballus identifies the domestic horse and not the other animals listed.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Recognise that Equus is the genus for horse like animals.Step 2: Remember that the species name caballus is linked with the domestic horse.Step 3: Distinguish this from other Equus species used for zebras and donkeys.Step 4: Observe that buffalo and camel belong to entirely different genera.Step 5: Choose horse as the correct match for Equus caballus.

Verification / Alternative check:
Taxonomy reference charts commonly list Equus caballus for horse, Equus asinus for donkey, and various Equus names for zebra species. Buffalos belong to genera such as Bubalus or Syncerus and camels belong to Camelus, which confirms that these cannot be correct. Textbooks and exam guides often present Equus caballus as a standard example of binomial nomenclature for domestic animals.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Zebra is a wild animal in the same genus Equus but with different species names, so Equus caballus does not refer to it. Donkey is identified by Equus asinus in scientific naming. Buffalo belongs to a different genus and has names like Bubalus bubalis for water buffalo. Camel is grouped under the genus Camelus and has its own species names, not Equus caballus.

Common Pitfalls:
Students sometimes remember only that Equus relates to horse like animals and may hesitate between horse, zebra, and donkey. The key is to link caballus specifically with the domestic horse. Learning a few standard pairs of common and scientific names for frequently tested animals can prevent confusion.

Final Answer:
Correct option: Horse