The Puzzle of Life’s Diversity and Darwin's Theory of Evolution

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts related to the biological diversity, Darwin's observations, and the theory of evolution.

Biological Diversity

The variety of life on Earth, which includes different species, shapes, sizes, and behaviors.

Evolution

The process by which modern organisms have descended from ancient organisms over long periods of time.

Theory of Evolution

A well-tested explanation based on evidence that describes how species change over time.

Darwin's Voyage

Charles Darwin's journey on the HMS Beagle, where he collected specimens and observed patterns in species.

Natural Selection

The process through which organisms with traits that enhance survival reproduce more successfully.

Adaptation

A trait that increases an organism's chance of survival in its environment.

Extinction

The disappearance of a species, which can be inferred from the fossil record.

Homologous Structures

Similar body parts in different species that indicate a common ancestry.

Fossil Evidence

Remains or imprints of ancient organisms that help show the evolution of species.

Descent with Modification

The principle that species today are descended from earlier species and change accumulates over long periods.

Artificial Selection

The process by which humans breed organisms for desired traits.

Fitness

The ability of an organism to survive and reproduce in its environment.

Geographic Distribution

The study of how species are distributed across different regions and how this relates to evolutionary processes.

Vestigial Organs

Remnants of structures that had important functions in ancestors but are currently reduced and insignificant.

Struggle for Existence

The competition among organisms for limited resources such as food, space, and mates.

Variation

Differences among individuals in a species, some of which can be inherited.