Evolution and Biodiversity 1 Flashcards
Evolution
changing the genetic makeup of a population over time
Macroevolution
long-term, large-scale changes in a population where the changes are large enough that the population is no longer able to breed with the original species.
Microevolution
small genetic changes in the gene pool of a population that result in changes to the varieties of individuals in the population.
Gene Pool
all genes in a population
Mutation
random changes in the structure of a DNA
Natural Selection
individuals that have traits that benefit survival
Requirements of Natural Selection
- Genetic variability in a trait within population
- Trait is heritable
- Differential reproduction
Ecological niche
- role of organisms in the ecosystems
- interaction with biotic and abiotic factors
Habitat
physical location
Generalist species
- broad niche
- more adaptable to rapidly changing environmental conditions
Specialist species
- narrow niche
- limited to consistent environmental conditions
- but has fewer competitors, and more food
Geographic isolation vs Reproductive isolation
geographic isolation is a physical separation of populations that can lead to reproductive isolation
reproductive isolation refers to factors that prevent interbreeding between populations
Background Extinction
normal, slow rate of a specie’s disappearance
Mass Extinction
quick, involving many species at once
Mass depletion
higher than mass extinction
Adaptive radiation
occurs after mass extinctions where numerous new species evolve to fill vacated niches
Artificial selection
artificially selecting superior genetic traits
Genetic engineering
species creation in laboratories through gene splicing
Saltwater Life Zones
71% of the earth.
Coastal zone
Open ocean
Estuary
Coral reefs and mangrove forests
Freshwater Life Zones
Freestanding water
Flowing water
Types of lakes
Oligotrophic
Eutrophic
Stream Systems
- Runoff
- Watershed
- Drainage Basin
- Floodplain
