Biology Vocabulary and Concepts

Flashcards covering key vocabulary and concepts related to biology, particularly focusing on evolution, ecology, and species interaction.

Gene Flow

The movement of genes in or out of a population, which can occur through the movement of individuals or gametes.

Adaptation

A trait that aids an organism in surviving and reproducing in its environment.

Divergent Evolution

When related organisms become less alike as populations adapt to different environmental conditions.

Convergent Evolution

When unrelated species become more alike due to sharing the same environment.

Co-Evolution

The process in which two or more species evolve together in response to one another.

Speciation

The process of forming a new species, occurring when populations become reproductively isolated.

Prezygotic Barriers

Barriers that prevent successful mating before a zygote is formed.

Postzygotic Barriers

Barriers that occur after a zygote has formed, affecting the viability or fertility of the embryo.

Allopatric Speciation

Speciation that occurs when populations become geographically isolated.

Sympatric Speciation

Speciation that occurs without geographical isolation.

Hardy-Weinberg Principle

States that allelic frequencies in populations remain constant unless affected by evolutionary forces.

Photosynthesis

The process by which producers (autotrophs) use sunlight to produce food.

Food Chain

A linear sequence showing energy transfer through organisms.

Energy Pyramid

A diagram that shows the flow of energy in an ecosystem, typically illustrating the 10% rule.

Ecological Succession

The process of change in species structure and composition in an ecological community over time.

Climax Community

A stable and mature ecosystem that has reached a steady state of species composition.

Biogeochemical Cycles

The movement of elements like carbon, nitrogen, and water through ecosystems.