IB BIOLOGY Topic 5: Evolution and Biodiversity

The gradual and cumulative change in the heritable characteristics of a population over many generations.

Preserved remains of organisms from the past that show the gradual changes in species over time.

The process of humans selectively breeding plants and animals to enhance specific genetic traits.

Common internal structures that appear in seemingly dissimilar animals due to shared ancestry.

Remnants of structures that no longer serve a purpose in modern organisms.

Comparing the DNA of different species to identify genetic similarities and differences.

The observation of species adapting to their environment or exhibiting changes over time.

Genetic variation within populations leading to speciation when two populations become geographically separated.

The process by which individuals with better adaptations are more likely to survive and reproduce.

Genetic variation among individuals within a species is necessary for natural selection to occur.

Characteristics that enhance an individual's suitability to its environment and way of life.

Species tend to produce more offspring than their environment can support.

Individuals with better adaptations are more likely to survive and reproduce.

Passing on characteristics to offspring through reproduction.

Natural selection operates when there is genetic variation within a species.

Variation arises from mutations, meiosis, and sexual reproduction.

Competition for limited resources leads to the survival of individuals with advantageous traits.

Genetic changes in bacteria can lead to resistance against antibiotics.

The shape of finch beaks changes in response to environmental food availability, illustrating natural selection.

The system of naming species with a unique scientific name consisting of genus and species.

The hierarchical classification system used to categorize organisms into different taxa.

Organizing species into similar groups based on shared characteristics.

A tool used to identify organisms based on observable characteristics.

Classification of plants into different groups based on characteristics like vascular tissue and reproductive methods.

Classification of animals into different groups based on characteristics like symmetry and presence of mouth and anus.

Tree diagrams illustrating the evolutionary relationships among species.

Groups of organisms that share a common ancestor.

Genetic differences accumulate over time, allowing estimation of divergence times.

Superficially similar structures in different groups due to similar functions and habitats.

Similar structures in different organisms resulting from common ancestry.

Cladistics has prompted reclassification of species or groups based on molecular evidence.