A3.1 Diversity of organisms SL Flashcards
The differences in characteristics among individuals of the same species.
Variation
For example, humans show variation in eye color, height, and blood type.
A group of organisms sharing common morphological (physical) traits.
Species
Humans and chimpanzees are distinct species due to different morphological characteristics.
Two-part scientific naming system for organisms, using genus and species names.
Binomial Nomenclature
Example: Homo sapiens for humans.
Species based on the ability to interbreed and produce fertile offspring.
Biological Species Concept
Mules, a horse-donkey hybrid, are infertile, illustrating this concept.
It classifies species based on shared physical characteristics.
Morphological Species Concept
Lions and tigers are differentiated by distinct morphological traits.
How does genomic diversity manifest within a species?
Through variations like single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs).
SNPs contribute to the unique genetic makeup of individuals.
How does chromosome number vary among species?
Different species have a distinct set number of chromosomes.
Humans have 46 chromosomes, while chimpanzees have 48.
The process of pairing and ordering chromosomes based on size, banding patterns, and centromere positions.
Karyotyping
Used to identify chromosomal abnormalities and determine sex.
What evidence supports chromosomal fusion in human evolution?
Fusion of ape chromosomes 12 and 13 is evident in human chromosome 2.
This fusion is marked by telomeric DNA and a secondary, non-functional centromere.
It is the evolutionary process where a species splits into new species.
Speciation
This can occur due to physical barriers or reproductive changes.
What challenges exist in distinguishing between species?
Similar morphology and sexual dimorphism within species can complicate classification.
For instance, the red and black grouse are morphologically similar but distinct species.
True or False: All members of a species have identical chromosome numbers.
True
This common chromosome number is a key feature of each species.
The complete set of genetic information of an organism.
Genome
Genomes are mostly the same within a species, with SNPs contributing to diversity.
What potential uses does genome sequencing have in medicine?
Creating personalized medical treatments based on individual genomes.
This technology could lead to breakthroughs in health and wellbeing.
In what ways do genomes vary between species?
Genome variation occurs in size and base sequence between species.
Blue whales and humpback whales have different genome sizes.
