1.1 Biodiversity-An Introduction Pages 8-13

Biodiversity The number and variety of living things

Species Members of a group of living things that can produce fertile offspring.

Hybridization Plants of different species successfully reproduce.

Morphology Plants, fungi and many microorganisms do not “breed” so we use physical characteristics to define species

Evolutionary Changes Physical changes Behavioural changes

Genetic Diversity Range of traits among members of the same species

Feeding Heterotrophs acquire nutrients from outside themselves Autotrophs make their own food through photosynthesis

Species Diversity Variety of species Number of individuals

Structural diversity Physical shapes Sizes Distribution Habitats communities

Biodiversity at Risk Food supply at risk Medicines lost Economic impact on tourism, forestry Biogeochemical cycle disruptions