Taxonomy

Taxonomy

Classification of organisms based on their relationships and characteristics.

Species

A group of organisms that can reproduce and produce fertile offspring.

Phylogenetic Trees

Diagrams that show evolutionary relationships among species and include timelines.

Macroevolution

Changes in anatomy, phylogeny, ecology, and behavior that occur in clades larger than a single species.

Microevolution

Small changes in a population, often reflected in allele frequency.

Speciation

The formation of a new species due to evolutionary processes.

Interbreeding

When members of the same species reproduce together.

Reproductive isolation

When two groups of the same species can no longer interbreed.

Allopatric speciation

Reproductive isolation that occurs due to geographical separation.

Sympatric speciation

Reproductive isolation that occurs in the same geographical area due to behavioral, temporal, or mechanical factors.

Temporal isolation

A form of reproductive isolation where two groups breed at different times.

Mechanical isolation

Prevention of mating due to physical differences in reproductive structures.

Pre-Zygotic

A reproductive barrier that prevents fertilization from occurring before a zygote is formed.

Geographical isolation

Separation of species by geographic barriers such as rivers or mountains.

Behavioral isolation

Differences in mating rituals or behaviors that prevent species from interbreeding.

Mating ritual

A special set of behaviors animals perform to attract mates.

Morphological

Related to the shape, size, or structure of an organism.

Allele frequency

A measurement of how common a specific allele is in a population.

Cladogram

A diagram that shows relationships among organisms based on derived characteristics.

Clade

A group of organisms united by a characteristic.

Branch point

A representation of a common ancestor in a phylogenetic tree.

Phylogeny

The study of evolutionary history and relationships among species or groups.