Speciation and Macroevolution

Question 1

Divergent Evolution

Answer 1

Evolution that leads to descendants becoming different in form from their common ancestor.

Question 2

Parallel Evolution

Answer 2

Independent evolution of similar traits in species that once shared a common ancestor.

Question 3

Convergent Evolution

Answer 3

The independent development of similarities between species as a result of them having similar ecological roles and selection pressures.

Question 4

Coevolution

Answer 4

Occurs when two or more species reciprocally affect each other’s evolution.

Question 5

Speciation

Answer 5

The evolutionary process by which new and distinct species are formed in the course of evolution.

Question 6

Clinical Variation

Answer 6

Gradual changes or differences i inherited characteristics of adjoining populations of a species spread across a range of environments (geographic range).

Question 7

Cline

Answer 7

Is a measurable gradient in a single character (or biological trait) of a species across its geographical range.

Question 8

Geographic Isolates

Answer 8

A physical barrier that prevents interbreeding between members of different populations of a species.

Question 9

Zone or Belt of Hybridisation

Answer 9

Area in which two divergent sub species may interbreed.

Question 10

Allopatric Species

Answer 10

Species that result when two populations of the same species becomes isolated from each other due to a geographic barrier.

Question 11

Sympatric Species

Answer 11

Closely related but reproductively isolated species living in the same geographic region.

Question 12

Reproductive Isolating Mechanisms

Answer 12

Reproductive characteristics that prevent reproduction between populations.

Question 13

Character Displacement

Answer 13

The evolutionary divergence of characteristics displayed by two or more species with the same niche in a particular habitat.

Question 14

Parapatric Speciation

Answer 14

When two or more subpopulations of a species evolve reproductive isolation from one another due to habitat differences within the population range.

Question 15

Parthenogenesis

Answer 15

Reproduction from an ovum without fertilisation in animals.

Question 16

Heat Shock Protein

Answer 16

Member of a family of proteins produced by cells in response to stressful environment, chemical or physical conditions’ e.g.g HSP90s assist with the activation and stabilisation of a wide variety of proteins.

Question 17

Developmental Neoteny

Answer 17

The relation of juvenile structure or traits by adults in a species.

Question 18

Stasis

Answer 18

A block of little or no evolutionary change in a species.

Question 19

Character Change

Answer 19

Change in phenotype over time.

Question 20

Exaptation

Answer 20

The process by which an anatomical structure, physiological process or behaviour pattern of an organism acquires a new function.

Question 21

Bipedal

Answer 21

The ability to walk on two, rather than four legs.