Biodiversity

The number of different species and the number of individuals of each species within a community.

organisation of living organisms into groups

They are capable of breeding to produce living, fertile offspring.

Universal system where organisms are identified by two names -generic name (Genus) -specific name (species)

Members of the same species can identify each other through physical and biochemical features and behaviour

-Enable individuals to recognise members of their own species -Identify a mate that is capable of breeding -Form a pair bond -Synchronise mating -become able to breed

Divides organisms according to differences that are useful at the time. (colour, size, number of legs). These are known as analogous characteristics where they have the same function but do not have the same evolutionary origin

Based upon the evolutionary relationships between organisms and their ancestors -classifies species into groups using shared characteristics derived from their ancestors

denotes the genus to which the organisms belong

Denotes the species to which the organism belongs

Homologous characteristics-similar evolutionary origins regardless of their function

If we use common names it doesn’t tell us very much about a species. The binomial name tells us the Genus and the Species of an organism and it’s called in the same way EVERYWHERE in the world It allows us to see what it is closely related to

Smaller groups within larger groups, and no overlap between groups

study of taxons and their position in a hierarchical order

Close relationship

-Live in similar environments -have similar selection pressures -Similar alleles will have the selective advantage -Produces similar/same proteins and therefore have similar characteristics

Classification systems

Domain, kingdom, phylum, class, order, family, genus, species

displays, signals, gift bringing, calls

A tree-like diagram -the oldest species is at the base of the tree while the most recent ones are represented by the ends of the branches

Phylogenetic classification is based on characteristics which have the same evolutionary origins. Taxa are based on evolutionary line of descent.

Domain

bacteria, Archaea and eukarya

the general term used to describe the variety in the living world