Biology Definitions

Pollinator – An animal that transfers pollen between flowers, enabling fertilisation.

Cross-pollination – Transfer of pollen between flowers of different plants of the same species.

Self-pollination – Transfer of pollen within the same plant’s flower(s).

Fertilisation – Fusion of male and female gametes to form a zygote.

Genetic variation – Differences in DNA between individuals of a population.

Mutation – A random change in DNA that can create new traits.

Adaptation – A feature of an organism that enables it to survive in its natural habitat

Natural selection – Process where individuals with advantageous traits survive and reproduce more.

Selection pressure – Environmental factor that determines which traits are beneficial.

Behavioural adaptation – An action or habit that helps an organism survive.

Physiological adaptation – An internal body process that aids survival.

Structural adaptation – A physical feature that improves survival.

Evolution – Gradual change in species over generations due to genetic variation and natural selection.

Fossil record – Preserved remains or traces of organisms showing changes over time.

Homologous structures – Similar body structures in different species indicating a common ancestor.

Genetic trait – A characteristic inherited through DNA from parents.

Acquired trait – A characteristic developed during life due to environment or experience, not inherited.