A3.1 Diversity of Genomes Kognity

Vocabulary flashcards covering genomes, SNPs, genome sizes, sequencing, DNA barcoding, eDNA, dichotomous keys, and related concepts from the notes.

Genome

All the genetic information of an organism; within most species the genome is largely the same, with variation mainly due to SNPs.

SNP (single-nucleotide polymorphism)

A single-base change in DNA that contributes to genetic variation; often occurs in non-coding regions.

Base pairs (bp)

The paired nucleotides that make up the rungs of DNA; the unit used to measure genome size.

Genome size

The actual amount of genetic material in a genome, measured by base pairs (bp); often reported as million base pairs (Mb).

Blue whale genome size

2374.87 million base pairs.

Humpback whale genome size

2265.79 million base pairs.

Diversity of eukaryote genomes

There can be large differences in genome size and base sequences between species, influencing traits and biology.

Genome sequencing

Determining the complete DNA sequence of an organism’s genome.

Whole genome sequencing

Sequencing the entire genome, including all chromosomes.

Human Genome Project (HGP)

International effort (1990–2003) to sequence the human genome, costing about $3 billion and involving researchers worldwide.

DNA similarity among humans

On average humans share 99.9% of their DNA with other humans.

DNA similarity with great apes

Humans share about 98.8% of DNA with chimpanzees and bonobos.

SNP contribution to diversity

Most genetic differences between individuals arise from SNPs, often in non-coding genomic regions.

DNA barcoding

Technique for identifying species by sequencing a short, informative DNA region and comparing it to a barcode catalog.

Barcode (DNA barcoding)

The specific DNA sequence used to identify a species.

Environmental DNA (eDNA)

DNA collected from environmental samples (e.g., water or soil) to detect which species are present without observing them.

Dichotomous key

A field tool that identifies species through a sequence of paired questions or statements with two possible answers.

Biodiversity

The variety of life in an environment; barcoding and eDNA help measure biodiversity and ecosystem health.

Musteloidea

A superfamily including weasels, raccoons, skunks; genetic analysis places red panda within this group.

Red panda classification

Genetic analyses place the red panda within the Musteloidea superfamily.

Online genome databases

Databases that store sequenced genomes to enable comparisons of genome sizes and sequences across species.

Comparative genomics and evolution

Comparing genomes to infer relationships among species and revise taxonomic classifications when needed.

Personalised medicine via genome sequencing

Future possibility of tailored medical treatments based on an individual's genome or microbiome.

Ethical and social considerations

Cheaper and more widespread sequencing raises concerns about privacy, insurance eligibility, and employment discrimination.

DNA barcoding applications beyond identification

Used for measuring biodiversity, food contamination checks, life-stage identification, and analyzing stomach contents.