T3 (Biodiversity) Definitions Flashcards
Biodiversity
The variety of forms of life on earth
Genetic Diversity
Range of genetic material present in a species or population
Habitat Diversity
The range of different habitats in an ecosystem
Species Diversity
The variety of species in an ecosystem
Biodiversity Hotspot
A region with a high level of biodiversity that is under threat from human activities
Speciation
The formation of new species when populations of a species become isolated and evolve differently. (process of evolution)
Geographical Isolation
A physical barrier, such as a mountain range, that causes populations to become separated
Mass Extinction
A period in which at least 75% of the total no. of species on Earth at the time are wiped out
Intrinsic Value
The value a species has within its own right (as opposed to the value it can give)
Utilitarianism
Taking the best moral action that maximises happiness / minimises suffering to sentient entities
Habitat Conservation
Management practise that seeks to conserve, protect and restore habitat areas for wild plants and animals
Species-based Conservation
Conservation that aims to protect a specific species or group of species that are most likely endangered or under threat
IN SITU
Conservation of species within their natural habitat
EX SITU
Preservation of species outside their natural habitat
Frozen Zoo
A storage facility in which genetic materials taken from animals are stored at low temperatures
Species
A group of organisms sharing common characteristics that interbreed and produce fertile offspring
Community
A group of populations living and interacting with each other in a common habitat
Habitat
The environment in which
a species normally lives
Evolution
The cumulative, gradual change in the genetic composition of a species over many successive generations, ultimately giving rise to species different from the common ancestor
Genes
Sections of DNA found in the nucleus of all cells (essentially the instructions from which a species is produced)
Gene Pool
All the different types of gene found within every individual of a species
Keystone Species
Species that are vital for the continuing function of the ecosystem: without them
the ecosystem may collapse
Flagship Species
‘charismatic’ species selected to appeal to the public and thereby help to protect other species in an area
