Introduction to Oceanography - Biology Concepts

Vocabulary flashcards based on concepts discussed in the 'Introduction to Biology' lecture, covering major themes in biology and marine biology.

Biology

The study of life and living organisms, exploring how they grow, function, reproduce, and interact with their environment.

Marine Biology

Focuses on life in the oceans and seas, studying marine plants, animals, and microorganisms and their interactions.

Zoology

The branch of biology that studies animals, including their anatomy, behavior, and habitats.

Botany

The branch of biology that studies plants, focusing on their structure, function, growth, and classification.

Microbiology

The study of microorganisms, such as bacteria, viruses, and algae, often requires a microscope to observe.

Taxonomy

The classification of living organisms into hierarchical categories based on shared characteristics.

Anatomy

The study of the internal and external structures of organisms.

Physiology

The study of functions and processes of organisms.

Cytology

The study of cells, focusing on their structure, function, and processes.

Genetics

The branch of biology that focuses on heredity and variation, specifically how traits are passed from parents to offspring.

Evolution

The study of how species change over time across generations.

Ecology

The study of interactions between organisms and their environment.

Prokaryotic Cells

Simple, single-celled organisms without a nucleus or membrane-bound organelles, such as bacteria and archaea.

Eukaryotic Cells

More complex cells that have a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles, found in plants, animals, fungi, and protists.

Cell Division

The process by which cells reproduce; includes binary fission in prokaryotes and mitosis in eukaryotes.

Asexual Reproduction

A type of reproduction requiring only one parent, producing genetically identical offspring.

Sexual Reproduction

A type of reproduction that involves two parents, leading to offspring with genetic variation.

Mutualism

A type of symbiotic relationship where both partners benefit from the interaction.

Commensalism

A type of symbiotic relationship where one species benefits and the other is unaffected.

Parasitism

A relationship where one species (the parasite) benefits at the expense of the host, which may be harmed.

Feeding Mechanisms

Different approaches organisms use to obtain food, including suspension feeding, deposit feeding, herbivory, and carnivory.