Flashcard on Evolution and Diversity

Front

What is the term for the complete elimination of a species?

Back

Extinction

Front

Define ecological diversity.

Back

Ecological diversity refers to the variety of habitats, species, and ecological processes in a given area.

Front

Why do monkeys have long arms and tails?

Back

Monkeys have long arms and tails to swing quickly from tree branches.

Front

Which organism is most closely related to the American lobster (Homarus americanus)?

Back

The Common lobster (Homarus gammarus) is most closely related to the American lobster.

Front

What type of diversity includes a variety of habitats, species, and ecological processes?

Back

Ecological diversity includes a variety of habitats, species, and ecological processes.

Front

What is the significance of biodiversity in ecosystems?

Back

Biodiversity is crucial for ecosystem stability, resilience, and the provision of ecosystem services.

Front

What are the main components of biodiversity?

Back

The main components of biodiversity include genetic diversity, species diversity, and ecosystem diversity.

Front

How does extinction impact ecological balance?

Back

Extinction can disrupt ecological balance by removing species that play critical roles in their ecosystems.

Front

What is the difference between species diversity and genetic diversity?

Back

Species diversity refers to the variety of different species in an ecosystem, while genetic diversity refers to the variation of genes within a species.

Front

What role do keystone species play in an ecosystem?

Back

Keystone species have a disproportionately large impact on their environment relative to their abundance, helping to maintain the structure of the ecosystem.