Ecology Flashcards
DNA
the fundamental and distinctive characteristics or qualities of someone or something, especially when regarded as unchangeable.
Chromosomes
a thread-like structure of nucleic acids and protein found in the nucleus of most living cells, carrying genetic information in the form of genes.
Genes
a distinct sequence of nucleotides forming part of a chromosome, the order of which determines the order of monomers in a polypeptide or nucleic acid molecule which a cell (or virus) may synthesize.
Genetics
the genetic properties or features of an organism, characteristic, etc.
Heritability
the proportion of this total variation between individuals in a given population due to genetic variation. This number can range from 0 (no genetic contribution) to 1 (all differences on a trait reflect genetic variation).
Sexual reproduction
the production of new living organisms by combining genetic information from two individuals of different types. In most higher organisms, one sex produces a small motile gamete which travels to fuse with a larger stationary gamete produced by the other.
Asexual reproduction
is a type of reproduction by which offspring arise from a single organism, and inherit the genes of that parent only.
Gametes
a mature haploid male or female germ cell which is able to unite with another of the opposite sex in sexual reproduction to form a zygote.
Zygote
a diploid cell resulting from the fusion of two haploid gametes; a fertilized ovum.
Dominant
have power and influence over.
Recessive
relating to or denoting heritable characteristics controlled by genes which are expressed in offspring only when inherited from both parents.
Ecology
the branch of biology that deals with the relations of organisms to one another and to their physical surroundings.
Ecosystem
a biological community of interacting organisms and their physical environment.
Habit
the natural home or environment of an animal, plant, or other organism.
Predator
an animal that naturally preys on others.
Prey
an animal that is hunted and killed by another for food.
Energy flow
Energy flow is the amount of energy that moves through a food chain.
Food chain
a series of organisms each dependent on the next as a source of food.
Food web
a system of interlocking and interdependent food chains
Herbivores
an animal that feeds on plants.
Carnivores
an animal that feeds on other animals.
Omnivore
an animal or person that eats a variety of food of both plant and animal origin.
Producer
a person, company, or country that makes, grows, or supplies goods or commodities for sale.
Consumer
a person who purchases goods and services for personal use.
