Bio Flashcards
Biological Diversity
number and variety of organisms
Diversity Index
measures biological diversity and health of an ecosystem - # of species
/number of organisms in an area
Scientific name for plant
flora
Scientific name for animal
fauna
species
Similar in appearance, however there is always variation within a species.
Can breed together, and offspring are fertile
Speciation
the evolution of different species from a single ancestor
Variation
differences in characteristics of organisms caused by genetic and environmental factors
Adaptation types
Structural adaptations, behavioural adaptations
an inherited characteristic behavior that helps an organism survive in its environment
behavioural adaptations
an inherited physical characteristic that helps an organism survive in its environment
Structural adaptation
broad niche characteristics
Unstable conditions
Large area
Generalists
Low diversity
High populations
narrow niche characteristics
Stable conditions
Small area
Specialists
High diversity
Small populations
Zygospores
Similar to spores but usually contain genetic materials from two different sources
spores
A single-celled reproductive structure from which an individual offspring develops; plants, algae, fungi, and some protozoa produce spores
The study of genes or heritable trait
genetics
