Diversity of Life test flashcards

Question 1

Taxonomy

Answer 1

Taxonomy is the study of classifying and naming organisms based on their shared characteristics.

Question 2

Levels of Classification (from broadest to most specific):

Answer 2

Domain

Kingdom

Phylum

Class

Order

Family

Genus

Species

Mnemonic:
- Dumb Kids Playing Catch On Freeways Get Squished

Question 3

Six Kingdoms VS. 3 Domains

Answer 3

The 3 domains system was adopted because it better reflects the evolutionary and genetic differences between major lifeforms, especially with prokaryotes.

Question 4

3 Domains

Answer 4

• Archaea
• Bacteria
• Eukarya

Question 5

6 Kingdoms

Answer 5

• Archaeabacteria
• Eubacteria
• Animalia
• Plantae
• Fungi
• Protista

Question 6

SPECIES DIVERSITY:

Answer 6

Species diversity refers to the variety and abundance of species within a given area.

For example:
In a city park with oak trees, dandelions, squirrels, robins, and earthworm, this demonstrates species diversity because many different species are living together.

Question 7

GENETIC DIVERSITY:

Answer 7

Genetic diversity refers to the variety of heritable characteristics in a population of interbreeding individuals.

For example:
Genetic diversity in killer whales is shown by different pods having unique vocal calls and slightly variations in size and behaviour, helping them adapt to different environments.

Question 8

ECOSYSTEM DIVERSITY:

Answer 8

Ecosystem diversity refers to the variety of ecosystems in the biosphere.

For example:
The variety of ecosystems in a national park, with mountains, lakes, and meadows, represents ecosystem diversity because it contains many different types of habitats.

Question 9

Why is diversity important to maintain?

Answer 9

Diversity is important to maintain in an ecosystem because it helps the ecosystem stay balance, recover from disturbances, and adapt to changes like climate shifts or a new species, ensuring the long-term survival for all organisms.