Homework #14 Vocabulary

Vocabulary flashcards based on homework assignment #14.

Kingdom

The broadest classification in biological taxonomy.

Phylum

A taxonomic rank below kingdom and above class.

Class

A taxonomic rank below phylum and above order.

Order

A taxonomic rank below class and above family.

Family

A taxonomic rank below order and above genus.

Species

A group of living organisms consisting of similar individuals capable of exchanging genes or interbreeding.

Morphological

Classification based on physical traits.

Biological

Classification based on the ability to interbreed and produce fertile offspring.

Fertile

Describing offspring that are able to reproduce.

Habitat Isolation

Isolation due to different habitats.

Behavioral Differences

Isolation due to differences in mating behaviors.

Hybrid Sterility

Sterility of a hybrid offspring.

Mule

A hybrid offspring of a male donkey and a female horse.

Reproductive Barriers

Barriers that prevent mating or fertile offspring between different species.

Geographic Isolation

Isolation due to geographic separation.

Genetic Mutations

Changes in the DNA sequence.

Natural Selection

The process where organisms better adapted to their environment tend to survive and reproduce more successfully.

Adaptive Radiation

The rapid evolution of species into many different forms to fill available niches.

Niche

A role or position an organism has in its environment.

Oxygen

The gas added to the atmosphere, enabling aerobic life.

Aerobic Life

Life that requires oxygen.

Ozone Layer

The layer that protects land life from harmful radiation.

Extinction Events

Events in which species disappear from Earth.

Transitional Forms

Intermediate forms between species, showing evolutionary steps.

Extinction

The dying out or termination of a species.