Biodiversity and Ecosystem Dynamics

Flashcards covering key concepts in biodiversity, adaptation, and ecosystem dynamics.

Biodiversity

The variety of life in the world or in a particular habitat or ecosystem.

Genetic Diversity

The variation of genes within a species, encompassing different alleles and traits.

Species Diversity

The number of different species within an ecosystem, emphasizing variety but not abundance.

Ecosystem Diversity

The variety of ecosystems in a given place, influenced by climate and geographical factors.

Sustainability

The ability of biological systems to remain diverse and productive over time, ensuring survival.

Niche

The role or function of an organism within its ecosystem, including its position in the food chain.

Adaptation

A change or adjustment in an organism that helps it survive in its environment.

Behavioral Adaptations

Actions organisms take to survive, such as migration, hibernation, and communication.

Physiological Adaptations

Internal body processes and functions that help organisms survive, like temperature regulation and hormone responses.

Structural Adaptations

Physical features of an organism, such as beak shape in birds, that aid in survival.

Ecological Disturbance

A disruption to an ecosystem, which can be natural or human-induced, affecting recovery and stability.

Hot Spots

Areas with significant levels of biodiversity that are under threat from human activities.