Evolution and Biodiversity PDF

Evolution and Biodiversity What is Biological Evolution And How does it occur? Biological Evolution -the description of how the earth’s life changes over time through changes in the genes of populations. Mutations Random changes in the structure or number of DNA molecule...

Evolution and Biodiversity What is Biological Evolution And How does it occur? Biological Evolution -the description of how the earth’s life changes over time through changes in the genes of populations. Mutations Random changes in the structure or number of DNA molecules in a cell that can be inherited by offspring.  Natural Selection It occurs when some individuals of a population have genetically based traits that enhance their ability to survive and produce offspring with these traits. Adaptation Any heritable trait that enables an organism to survive through natural selection and to reproduce more than other individuals without tha trait under prevailing environmental conditions.  Coevolution A give-and-take evolutionary game, each species is in genetically programmed race to produce the largest number of surviving offspring. Ex: Bat and Moth How do Geological And Climate Changes Affect Evolution? Geologic Process Affect Natural Selection  Scientists have discovered that huge of molten rock within the earth’s interior break its surface into a series of gigantic solid plates, called tectonic plates.  Earthquake Affect biological evolution by separating and isolating populations of species. Over long periods of time, this can lead to the formation of new species in response to new environmental conditions. Volcanic Eruptions  Affect biological evolution by destroying habitats and reduing or wiping out population of species  Each species Plays a Unique Role in its Ecosystem Niche -A species way of life or role in a community or ecosystem and includes everything that affects its survival and reproduction. Habitat -the place where it lives and its niche is its pattern of living Classification of Niche 1. Generalists Species -they can live in many different places, eat a variety of foods and often tolerate a wide range ofenvironmental conditions. 2. Specialist Species -they may be able to live in only one type of habitat,use one or few types of food, or tolerate a narrow change of environmental conditions. Speciation -two species arise from one. Geographic Isolation Occurs when different groups of the same population of a species become physically isolated from one another for long periods. Reproductive Isolation  occurs when members of different populations can no longer mate. Extinction is forever! Extinction - which an entire species on earth ceases to exist.