Systematics Flashcards
1
Q
What is systematics?
A
Systematics is identifying the relationships between organisms.
2
Q
Who established taxonomy? When?
A
Carl von Linnaeus in the mid-1700s
3
Q
What is the definition of ‘species’ according to Fritz Mayr?
A
A group of interbreeding individuals
reproductively isolated from other such populations.
4
Q
What are some ways of classifying species? (6 ways)
A
- Morphology
- Mating test
- Chromosomes (karyotype)
- Distribution
- Behavior
- Chemical/molecular
5
Q
What is a subspecies?
A
Species with consistent regional variation in some characteristics
6
Q
Why are subspecies important?
A
- Indicates possible speciation
- Ecology of forms may be different
7
Q
What are the problems with subspecies?
A
- Emphasizes minor differences
- No definite criteria for a subspecies
- What is a “pure” subspecies?
