Introduction to Evolutionary Biology

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and concepts related to evolutionary biology, phylogeny, taxonomy, and key examples from the lecture.

Homoplasia

A trait that evolves independently in different lineages, as seen in the camera eye of mollusks and other species.

Convergent Evolution

The independent evolution of similar traits in different lineages due to similar environmental pressures, exemplified by bat and butterfly wings.

Taxonomy

The practice of classifying and naming organisms and organizing them into groups based on shared characteristics.

Phylogeny

The study of the evolutionary history and relationships among individuals or groups, often represented as a tree.

Monophyletic Group

A taxonomic group that includes a common ancestor and all its descendants, such as all mammals.

Paraphyletic Group

A taxonomic group that includes a common ancestor but excludes one or more descendant branches, such as reptiles.

Derived Trait

A trait that is present in an organism but was absent in its last common ancestor.

Tetrapods

Four-limbed vertebrates that include mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians.

Common Ancestor

The most recent species from which multiple descendants have evolved.

Clade

A group of organisms that includes an ancestor and all its descendants, reflecting shared evolutionary history.