3.4.5 Species and Taxonomy

Question 1

Define Species

Answer 1

Can interbreed to produce fertile offspring

Question 2

Give the taxonomic levels of classification

Answer 2

Domain, Kingdom, Phylum, Class, Order, Family, Genus, Species

Question 3

Describe how genetic diversity between species can be measured

Answer 3

1. Comparing observable characteristics/features
2. Comparing base sequences of DNA
3. Comparing Base sequences of mRNA
4. Comparing amino acid sequences (of the same protein)

Question 4

Classification is hierarchical – what does this
mean?

Answer 4

smaller groups are placed within larger groups, with no overlap between groups.

Question 5

Which two taxa make up an organisms binomial
name?

Answer 5

Genus species

Question 6

Explain what is meant by a phylogenetic group?

Answer 6

(Grouped according to) evolutionary links/history/relationships /common ancestry

Question 7

Courtship Behaviour – The importance (3)

Answer 7

1. enables male I female to recognise opposite sex;
2. enables recognition of own species;
3. synchronises mating behaviour

Question 8

Courtship Behaviour – How it increases
probability of mating (4)

Answer 8

1. Attracts mate of the same species;
2. Indication of sexual maturity / fertility / synchronises mating;
3. Stimulates release of gametes;
4. Formation of a pair bond / bond between two organisms (to have / raise young)