Species Characteristics Quiz and Flashcards

Study Notes

A species is a group of living organisms that share common characteristics and can interbreed to produce fertile offspring.
The concept of a species is a fundamental unit in biology, used to classify and identify different types of organisms.

Reproductive isolation: Members of a species can only interbreed with each other, not with members of other species.
Morphological similarity: Members of a species share similar physical characteristics, such as body shape, size, and color.
Genetic similarity: Members of a species have similar genetic makeup, with some degree of genetic variation.
Ecological niche: Members of a species occupy a specific ecological niche, with adaptations to their environment.

Morphospecies: Defined based on morphological characteristics, such as shape and structure.
Biological species: Defined based on reproductive isolation and genetic similarity.
Ecological species: Defined based on occupation of a specific ecological niche.
Cryptic species: Species that are morphologically similar but genetically distinct.

Allopatric speciation: Speciation occurs when a population is geographically isolated from the rest of the species.
Sympatric speciation: Speciation occurs when a population diverges within the same geographic area.
Parapatric speciation: Speciation occurs when a population is partially isolated from the rest of the species.

Biodiversity: Species contribute to the diversity of life on Earth, with each species playing a unique role in the ecosystem.
Ecosystem function: Species interact with their environment and other species to maintain ecosystem function and balance.
Evolution: Species are the units of evolution, with changes in species leading to the development of new traits and adaptations.

A species is a group of organisms with shared characteristics that can interbreed to create fertile offspring.
Serves as a fundamental biological classification unit.

Reproductive Isolation: Only members of the same species can interbreed successfully.
Morphological Similarity: Members exhibit similar physical traits such as body shape, size, and coloration.
Genetic Similarity: Organisms have alike genetic makeup, allowing for variation within the group.
Ecological Niche: Species adapt to specific roles and environments within an ecosystem.

Morphospecies: Identified by physical features like shape and structure.
Biological Species: Recognized by the ability to reproduce only within their group, emphasizing reproductive isolation.
Ecological Species: Defined by their role and habitat in the ecosystem.
Cryptic Species: Morphologically similar species that are genetically distinct from one another.

Allopatric Speciation: Occurs through geographic isolation of populations leading to divergence.
Sympatric Speciation: Divergence arises in overlapping geographic areas without physical barriers.
Parapatric Speciation: Involves partial isolation, allowing for distinct populations to gradually evolve.

Biodiversity: Each species contributes uniquely to the planet's overall biodiversity.
Ecosystem Function: Interactions among species and their environments are crucial for maintaining ecosystem balance and functions.
Evolution: Species are pivotal units of evolution, with changes over time resulting in new traits and adaptations.