Biodiversity and Species Concept

Flashcards covering key concepts in biodiversity, species definitions, and threats to species.

Genetic diversity

A measure of the variety of different versions of the same genes within individual species.

Species diversity

Describes the number of different kinds of organisms within individual communities or ecosystems.

Ecological diversity

Assesses the richness and complexity of a biological community, including the number of niches, trophic levels, and ecological processes.

Biological Species Concept

Defines species by interbreeding and producing viable offspring, as proposed by Ernst Mayr.

Ring species

A group of populations that can interbreed with their nearest neighbor but not those far away.

Phylogenetic Species Concept

Defines species by DNA similarity.

Evolutionary Species Concept

Defines species by an evolutionarily significant lineage that shares a common ancestor.

Binomial nomenclature

The system of naming organisms by two words, developed by Carolus Linnæus.

Biodiversity hotspots

Areas with exceptionally high numbers of endemic species, requiring at least 1500 endemic species to qualify.

Endemic species

A species found in only one limited geographic area.

Biomimicry

Nature-inspired design.

Ecotourism

Tourism focused on experiencing wild places or viewing wildlife, supporting sustainable development and education.

HIPPO

A mnemonic representing human causes of extinction: Habitat destruction, Invasive species, Pollution, Population growth, Overharvesting.

Extinction

The elimination of a species, considered a normal process in the natural world.

Endangered species

Species considered to be in imminent danger of extinction.

Threatened species

Species likely to become endangered in the near future.

Vulnerable species

Species that are naturally rare or have been locally depleted by human activities, putting them at risk.

Endangered Species Act (1973)

U.S. law making it unlawful to harm, hunt, or collect individuals of an endangered species.

Keystone species

Species whose disappearance would cause significant environmental disruption.

Indicator species

Species that signal environmental health, declines indicate pollution or habitat degradation.

Umbrella species

Species that secure habitats for many other organisms.

Flagship species

Charismatic species used as symbols in conservation efforts.