Evolution and Genetics Quiz

Evolution and Mechanisms of Evolution

• Genetic diversity increase: Mutation is most likely to increase genetic diversity in a population
• Artificial vs. Natural Selection: Artificial selection is guided by humans, while natural selection occurs without human intervention.
• Vestigial Structure: A structure that has lost its original function over time
• Directional Selection: An increase in beak size in a population of birds during a period of drought is an example of directional selection

Genetics and Population Evolution

• Meiosis vs. Mitosis: Meiosis results in four non-identical cells, while mitosis results in two identical cells.
• Genotype: An organism's genetic makeup.
• Genetic Drift: A random change in allele frequencies due to chance events, especially in small populations.

Ecology

• Keystone Species: A species that has a disproportionate impact on its ecosystem relative to its abundance.
• Survivorship Curve: Depicts the percentage of a population that survives at different ages.
• R-selected species: Characterized by high reproduction rate and short lifespan

Speciation and Phylogeny

• Sympatric Speciation: Speciation that occurs without geographic isolation, often due to reproductive barriers.
• Cladogram Node: Represents the common ancestor of the organisms depicted.

Behavioral Ecology

• Proximate vs. Ultimate Causes: Proximate causes refer to the immediate triggers of behavior, while ultimate causes refer to the evolutionary reasons for behavior.
• Learned Behavior: An example is a dog learning to sit on command.

Plant Biology and Photosynthesis

• Plant Adaptations for Land: A waxy cuticle to prevent water loss, extensive root systems, etc.
• Primary Growth: Growth that occurs in the roots and stems through the elongation of cells.
• Chlorophyll's Role: It absorbs sunlight and uses it to convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose.

True or False

• Sexual Selection: True
• Fungi as Autotrophs: False
• Allopatric Speciation: True