evolution of species Flashcards
what is a species?
a group of organisms that can interbreed to produce fertile offspring
what is variation?
genetic differences between members of the same species
what does variation aloow?
allows species to better adapt to changes in environmental condition
what is a mutation?
a random and permanent change to genetic material (DNA)
how does mutation occur?
mutation occurs spontaneously and the rate at which mutation can occur can be increased by exposure to environmental factors
what are examples of mutagenic agents?
- harmful chemicals
- UV light
- x-rays
what are the three types of mutations?
- advantageous
- neutral
- disadvantageous
advantageous mutation
beneficial to the survival of the organism
neutral mutation
has no effect on the survival of the organism
disadvantageous mutation
not beneficial to the survival of the organism
what is the only source of new alleles within a population?
mutations
what heps increase variation within a species?
introducing new alleles into a gene pool
what does variation make possible?
for species to evolve over time
what is an adaptation?
inherited characteristics that make an organism well suited to survive within its environment
what are the two types of adaptation?
- structural
- behavioural
what is structural adaptation?
an anatomical feature that helps an organism survive
what is behavioural adaptation?
a behavioural response to an environmental stimulus
what adaptations do camels have?
- long legs help to keep the camel cool
- stores fat in humps helping it to survive long periods without food and water
- stretchy nostrils and long eyelashes help to keep sand out