Biology Definitions

Pollinator

An animal that transfers pollen between flowers, enabling fertilisation.

Cross-pollination

Transfer of pollen between flowers of different plants of the same species.

Self-pollination

Transfer of pollen within the same plant’s flower(s).

Fertilisation

Fusion of male and female gametes to form a zygote.

Genetic variation

Differences in DNA between individuals of a population.

Mutation

A random change in DNA that can create new traits.

Adaptation

A feature of an organism that enables it to survive in its natural habitat.

Natural selection

Process where individuals with advantageous traits survive and reproduce more.

Selection pressure

Environmental factor that determines which traits are beneficial.

Behavioural adaptation

An action or habit that helps an organism survive.

Physiological adaptation

An internal body process that aids survival.

Structural adaptation

A physical feature that improves survival.

Evolution

Gradual change in species over generations due to genetic variation and natural selection.

Fossil record

Preserved remains or traces of organisms showing changes over time.

Homologous structures

Similar body structures in different species indicating a common ancestor.

Genetic trait

A characteristic inherited through DNA from parents.

Acquired trait

A characteristic developed during life due to environment or experience, not inherited.