STAAR Biology Reporting Category 3

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What are prosimians?

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Prosimians are a suborder of primates that includes lemurs, lorises, and tarsiers, characterized by their reliance on smell and nocturnal habits.

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What is the bottleneck effect in population genetics?

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The bottleneck effect occurs when a population's size is significantly reduced for at least one generation, leading to a loss of genetic diversity.

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Define gradualism in evolutionary biology.

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Gradualism is the theory that evolution occurs slowly and steadily over long periods of time, rather than in rapid bursts.

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What is punctuated equilibrium?

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Punctuated equilibrium is an evolutionary theory that proposes species remain stable for long periods, interrupted by brief periods of rapid change.

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What does the term 'extinction' mean?

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Extinction is the end of an organism or a group of organisms, typically due to environmental changes or loss of habitat.

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What is speciation?

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Speciation is the evolutionary process by which populations evolve to become distinct species.

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What evidence supports the theory of common ancestry among primates?

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Similarities in bone structures, such as the humerus, among different primate species suggest they share a common ancestor.

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What is genetic diversity and why is it important?

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Genetic diversity refers to the total number of genetic characteristics in the genetic makeup of a species, crucial for adaptability and survival.

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What is the significance of fossil records in understanding evolution?

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Fossil records provide evidence of past life forms and their evolution, helping scientists understand the history of life on Earth.

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What is the role of competition in evolution?

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Competition for resources can drive natural selection, leading to adaptations and the evolution of species.