Biodiversity & Levels of Biological Organization

Vocabulary flashcards covering key terms from the lecture on biodiversity, its types, and biological levels of organization.

Biodiversity

The variety of life, from microbes to large plants and animals, including their genetic differences and the ecosystems in which they live.

Genetic Diversity

The number of different alleles present within a species; higher levels allow populations to better tolerate environmental change.

Species Diversity

The number of different species present in an ecosystem; greater variety lowers the chance of ecosystem collapse.

Ecosystem Diversity

The range of different ecosystems, habitats, and microhabitats in a given area, encompassing both biotic and abiotic factors.

Species

A group of organisms sharing a gene pool and capable of interbreeding—e.g., Homo sapiens.

Gene Pool

The complete set of genetic information (alleles) within all individuals of a population or species.

Allele

A variant form of a gene that contributes to genetic diversity within a species.

Biosphere

All parts of Earth where life exists.

Biome

A large region with a distinct climate and characteristic life forms; five major types are aquatic, grassland, forest, desert, and tundra.

Ecosystem

A community of organisms interacting with each other and with their physical environment.

Community

All the different species living in the same area and interacting with one another.

Population

Members of the same species living in the same area.

Organism

An individual living entity, such as a plant, animal, or single-celled life form.

Terrestrial

Relating to land-based environments or ecosystems.

Aquatic

Relating to water-based environments or ecosystems.