Variation Flashcards
(26 cards)
What is variation in animals?
Variation in animals refers to the differences in traits among individuals of the same species.
True or False: All animals of the same species are identical.
False
What are the two main types of variation?
Genetic variation and environmental variation.
Fill in the blank: Genetic variation is caused by _____ and _____ mutations.
gene and chromosomal
What is an example of environmental variation?
Differences in fur color due to temperature or season.
What is heritability?
Heritability is the proportion of variation in a trait that can be attributed to genetic differences.
Multiple Choice: Which of the following is NOT a source of genetic variation? A) Mutation B) Gene flow C) Natural selection D) Sexual reproduction
C) Natural selection
What role does sexual reproduction play in variation?
It increases genetic variation through the combination of parental genes.
True or False: Environmental factors can influence the expression of genetic traits.
True
What is a phenotype?
A phenotype is the observable physical or biochemical characteristics of an organism.
Fill in the blank: The _____ is the genetic makeup of an organism.
genotype
What is stabilizing selection?
Stabilizing selection is a type of natural selection that favors average traits and reduces variation.
Multiple Choice: Which of the following is an example of disruptive selection? A) Larger beaks in finches during drought B) Average-sized fish thriving in stable environments C) Smaller and larger fish surviving better than average-sized fish
C) Smaller and larger fish surviving better than average-sized fish
What is the significance of genetic drift?
Genetic drift can lead to random changes in allele frequencies, affecting variation in small populations.
True or False: Variation is essential for the process of evolution.
True
What is sexual dimorphism?
Sexual dimorphism is the difference in appearance between male and female individuals of the same species.
Fill in the blank: The study of variation in animals is important for understanding _____ and _____ processes.
evolution and ecology
What is a mutation?
A mutation is a change in the DNA sequence that can lead to new traits.
Multiple Choice: Which of the following is a mechanism of evolution? A) Natural selection B) Artificial selection C) Genetic drift D) All of the above
D) All of the above
What is adaptive radiation?
Adaptive radiation is the rapid evolution of diversely adapted species from a common ancestor.
True or False: All variations are beneficial for survival.
False
What does the term ‘allele frequency’ refer to?
Allele frequency refers to how often an allele appears in a population.
Fill in the blank: The process by which humans breed animals for specific traits is called _____ selection.
artificial
What is the founder effect?
The founder effect occurs when a small group establishes a new population, leading to reduced genetic variation.
