Chapter 7 Flashcards
A distinguishing characteristic of an organism
Trait
A section of DNA with genetic information for one trait
Gene
How a distinguishing characteristic appears
Phenotype
A permanent change in DNA sequence
Mutation
The complete set of genes of an organism
Genotype
A slight difference in inherited traits among individual members of a species
Variation
A trait that helps a species survive in its environment
Adaptation
A process by which organisms that have variations that help them survive in their own environment live longer, compete better, and reproduce more than those that do not have the variation
Natural selection
The selection and breeding of organisms that have desired traits
Selective breeding
A physical trait that increases survival
Structural adaptation
A behavior or action that increases survival
Behavioral adaptation
A biochemical change that increases survival
Functional adaptation
An adaptation that helps a species blend in with its environment
Camouflage
An adaptation in which one species looks like another species
Mimicry
Helps species maintain homeostasis, avoid predators, find and eat food, and move
Adaptations
