A3.1 (Diverstiy of Organisms)

Variation

Differences in characteristics between individuals of the same species.

Population

Group of individuals of the same species living in the same area and capable of interbreeding.

Taxonomy

The science of classifying and naming organisms.

Morphology

The study of the form and structure of organisms.

Species

Group of organisms that can interbreed to produce fertile offspring.

Binomial Nomenclature

System of naming species using two names: genus and species.

Speciation

Formation of new species through the accumulation of genetic differences between populations.

Diploid

Having two complete sets of chromosomes, one from each parent.

Karyogram

Image showing an individual's chromosomes arranged in homologous pairs by size and structure.

Karyotype

The number, size, shape and arrangement of chromosomes in an individual's cells.

Homologous Chromosomes

Pair of chromosomes with the same genes at the same loci, one inherited from each parent.

Genome

Complete set of genetic material in an organism.

Polymorphism

Presence of two or more distinct forms of a genetic characteristic within a population.

Genome Size

Total amount of DNA in an organism's genome.

Genome Sequencing

Determining the complete nucleotide sequence of an organism's genome.

Genomics

Study of genomes, including their structure, function, evolution and interactions.

Autosome

Chromosome that is not a sex chromosome.

Sex Chromosome

Chromosome involved in determining biological sex and carrying sex-linked genes.

Telomere

Repetitive DNA sequence at the end of a chromosome that protects it from degradation and fusion.

Asexual Reproduction

Reproduction involving one parent that produces genetically similar or identical offspring.

Horizontal Gene Transfer

Transfer of genetic material between organisms other than from parent to offspring.

Dichotomous Key

Identification tool using a series of paired, contrasting choices to identify an organism.

DNA Barcodes

Short, standardised DNA sequences used to identify and distinguish species.

Biodiversity

Variety of life within a particular area, including genetic, species and ecosystem diversity.