Untitled Flashcard Set

Genetic diversity

The variety of alleles and genes within a species or population, crucial for adaptation and evolution.

Species diversity

The variety of species within a given area, consisting of species richness and species evenness.

Ecosystem diversity

The variety of different ecosystems within a region or on Earth, encompassing habitats and ecological processes.

Biological species concept

A species is a group of organisms that can interbreed in nature and produce fertile offspring, isolated from other groups.

Limitations of the biological species concept

It cannot apply to asexual organisms, fossils, ring species, hybrids, or wild populations where interbreeding can't be tested.

Linnaean classification

A hierarchical system of classification for organisms based on shared traits, including Domain, Kingdom, Phylum, etc.

Binomial nomenclature

A two-part Latin naming system for species, consisting of Genus and species names, standardized for scientific communication.

Dichotomous key

A tool for identifying organisms using pairs of statements about observable characteristics.

Lincoln Index formula

N = (M × n) / m, where N is total population size, M is individuals marked in the first capture, n is total caught in the second, and m is marked recaptures.

Assumptions of Lincoln Index

Includes random mixing of marked individuals, no population changes between captures, and identifiable marks.

Species richness

The total number of different species present in a given area.

Species evenness

How equally individuals are distributed among the species present in an area.

Simpson's Diversity Index

SDI = 1 − [Σn(n−1)] / [N(N−1)], measuring biodiversity through richness and evenness.

Random sampling

Choosing sample locations randomly to avoid bias in uniform habitats.

Systematic sampling

Collecting samples at fixed intervals to investigate gradients across an area.

Quadrat

A square frame used to sample a defined area for counting individuals or estimating cover.

Clumped distribution

Individuals grouped in patches around resources or due to social behaviors.

Exponential growth

A population growth pattern with no resource limits, resulting in a J-shaped curve.

Logistic growth

Population growth that levels off as resources become limiting, forming an S-shaped curve.

r-strategists

Species that reproduce rapidly, with many offspring and little parental care, following a J-curve.

K-strategists

Species that invest more in fewer offspring with high parental care, following an S-curve.

Population change formula

Population change = (Births + Immigration) − (Deaths + Emigration).

Negative population change

Indicates a population decline due to higher deaths and emigration than births and immigration.