ecosystems

Unity and Diversity

The concept that all living organisms share common characteristics while also exhibiting a wide range of differences.

Evolution

The change in heritable characteristics of a population over time through natural selection, as proposed by Darwin.

Acquired Characteristics

Traits that individuals develop during their lifetimes, which are not inherited.

Lamarckism

An outdated theory of evolution suggesting that acquired characteristics can be inherited.

Evidence for Evolution in Base Sequences

Changes in DNA or RNA sequences and protein amino acid sequences that indicate evolutionary changes.

Selective Breeding

The process of breeding plants and animals for specific traits beneficial to humans.

Homologous Structures

Anatomically similar features in different species that serve different functions, indicating a common ancestor.

Rudimentary Organs

Organs that have lost their original function through evolution, such as the human appendix.

Analogous Structures

Features that serve similar functions but have different evolutionary origins.

Convergent Evolution

The process where unrelated species develop similar traits due to similar environmental pressures.

Bilateral Symmetry

A body plan with distinct anterior and posterior ends, facilitating communication between body parts.

Speciation

The formation of new and distinct species through the separation of populations and differing natural selection.

Sympatric Speciation

Speciation occurring in the same geographical area, often due to behavioral differences.

Allopatric Speciation

Speciation that occurs when populations are geographically separated.

Adaptations

Traits that enhance an organism's ability to survive and reproduce in its environment.

Adaptive Radiation

The diversification of a species into various forms to adapt to different ecological niches.

Sterility of Hybrids

The phenomenon where hybrids, such as mules, are often sterile due to differing chromosome numbers.

Polyploid

An organism with more than two sets of homologous chromosomes, often resulting from chromosome duplication.

Autotetraploid

An organism with four copies of a single genome, typically low in fertility.

Allotetraploid

An organism with four sets of chromosomes from two different genomes, capable of reproduction through meiosis.

Conservation of Biodiversity

The practice of protecting and preserving the variety of life on Earth, including ecosystems, species, and genetic diversity.

Anthropogenic Species Extinction

The extinction of species caused by human activities, such as habitat destruction and overharvesting.

Invasive Species

Non-native species that can disrupt ecosystems through predation, competition, or hybridization.

Pollution

The introduction of harmful substances into the environment, affecting biodiversity and ecosystems.

Global Climate Change

Rapid changes in climate that can outpace the ability of species to adapt.

Monitoring Evidence of Biodiversity Crisis

Assessing various factors such as population size, species range, and ecosystem health to gauge biodiversity loss.

In Situ Conservation

The preservation of species in their natural habitats through legal protection or land management.

Ex Situ Conservation

The preservation of species outside their natural habitats, such as in zoos or seed banks.

Germplasm

The storage of living genetic material for future propagation of species.

EDGE of Existence Project

A conservation initiative targeting species that are both evolutionarily distinct and globally endangered for focused conservation efforts.