1. Biodiversity and Evolution Review

2. Biodiversity includes these components: – Functional diversity – Ecological diversity – Species diversity - Genetic diversity

3. Functional Diversity The variety of processes, including matter cycling and energy flow within ecosystems, that result from species interacting with one another in food webs

4. Ecological Diversity Variety of terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems found in an area or on the earth

5. Species Diversity The number and abundance of species present in different communities

6. Genetic Diversity The diversity that enables life on earth to adapt and survive environmental changes

7. Natural Selection Occurs when some individuals of a population have genetically based traits that enhance their ability to survive and produce offspring with the same traits.

8. Evolution A change in the genetic characteristics of a population from one generation to another

9. Mutations Random changes in the structure or number of DNA molecules in a cell that can be inherited by offspring.

10. Evolution by Natural Selection Review Genes mutate, individuals are selected, and populations evolve that are better adapted to survive and reproduce under existing environmental conditions.

11. Human Success Strong opposable thumbs Upright walking Complex brain

12. Survival of the Strongest Fitness – a measure of reproductive success

13. Geological Processes Volcanoes Earthquakes Mountains forming Fragmentation of forests Deforestation Construction Etc.

14. Extinction Entire species cease to exist Endemic species are found in only one area This makes them very vulnerable Mass extinction is a significant rise in extinction rates above the background level Large groups of species

15. Species Diversity Species richness – the number of different species vs… Species evenness - relative abundance of individuals within each species Higher the richness; the more sustainability

16. Ecological Niche The role a species plays in its ecosystem Don’t confuse with the species habitat Pattern of living

17. General vs. Specific Generalists have a broad niche Specialists have a narrow niche

18. Important Niche Roles Native species – thrive in a particular ecosystem; equilibrium Indicator species – provide early warning signs of damage Keystone species – large effect on types and abundance of other species Foundation species – shape and enhance habitats that benefit other species