**Human variation & adaptation Flashcards
Define variation
in genetics, inherited differences among individuals; the bases of evolutionary change
Define adaptation
a functional response to environmental conditions
What is a population?
-an identifiable group within a species
Define gene pool
the stock of different genes in an interbreeding population.
What is a polytypic species?
-a species divided into local populations that differ in phenotypic traits ( humans are an example of this)
Define stereotype
-the qualities of an individual being placed on others
Who was Franz Boas? (1858-1942)
-emphasizes that biology culture psychology and language must be studied in order to understand a group ( breaking though racial moulds)
Who was Carlton Coon? (1904-1981)
-believed that homo sapiens evolved from homo erectus 5 separate times into 5 different races
What is skin colour influenced by?
-natural selection due to environmental exposure
What is an epicanthic eye fold?
-small flap of skin branching from eyelid to bridge of nose ( may have been an adaptation to cold weather)
Moken children’s pupils constrict in water, why is this?
-natural adaptation in expansion because they spend so much time in the water without goggles (in Thailand they make their living collecting shells)
Define hypoxia
- oxygen starvation
- can happen living in high altitudes
- most populations that live in high altitudes can survive of less oxygen (adaptation)
What is population genetics?
- the study of genetic variation within and among populations
- includes gene flow, natural selection and genetic drift
What is microevolution?
- evolutionary processes that occur within a species
- can be observed over 2 to 3 generations
Define Acclimitization
-short term changes in physiology that occur in response to changes in environmental conditions (eg- skin tanning)
