All Flashcards
Define adaptation.
Process where species change over time to better fit their environment through genetic, behavioral, or physiological changes.
Define evolution.
The change in the heritable characteristics of biological populations over successive generations.
Define allopatric speciation.
Speciation that occurs when a physical barrier prevents two populations from interbreeding.
Define sympatric speciation.
Speciation that occurs when populations in the same area stop reproducing due to different breeding times, seasons, or incompatibilities.
Define reproductive isolation.
When two populations can no longer interbreed, leading to the formation of separate species.
Define genetic diversity.
The variety of genes within a population or species.
What is the effect of a physical barrier on a population?
A physical barrier can lead to allopatric speciation, where two populations evolve into separate species due to the inability to interbreed.
What is the effect of climate change on species adaptation?
Climate change forces species to adapt to new temperature regimes, altered habitats, and changing resource availability, or face decline and potential extinction.
What is the effect of habitat fragmentation on genetic diversity?
Habitat fragmentation reduces gene flow between populations, leading to decreased genetic diversity and increased vulnerability to environmental changes.
What is the effect of different breeding times on a population?
Populations in the same area stop reproducing due to different breeding times, leading to sympatric speciation.
What is the effect of different breeding seasons on a population?
Populations in the same area stop reproducing due to different breeding seasons, leading to sympatric speciation.
What is the effect of competition on a population?
Competition for resources (food, mates, space) favors individuals with traits that give them a competitive edge, leading to adaptation.
What is the effect of not adapting on a population?
If a population doesn’t evolve, it faces higher death rates and the risk of extinction.
What is the effect of environmental changes on populations?
When environments change, populations can diverge. One group might adapt one way, while another adapts differently.
What is the effect of reproductive isolation on a population?
Reproductive isolation prevents gene flow between populations, allowing them to evolve independently and potentially become distinct species.
What is the effect of genetic diversity on a population?
Populations with diverse genes are more resilient to disasters and environmental changes, increasing their chances of survival.
What is the effect of a physical barrier on a population?
It can lead to allopatric speciation if the barrier prevents interbreeding.
How can different breeding times cause speciation?
Populations may undergo sympatric speciation if they breed at different times, preventing interbreeding.
What is the effect of climate change on species adaptation?
Climate change creates environmental pressures that force species to adapt or face extinction.
What is the effect of habitat fragmentation on species evolution?
Habitat fragmentation can isolate populations, leading to different evolutionary paths and potentially speciation.