Biodiversity and Evolution Flashcard

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What is the background extinction rate?

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The natural low rate of species extinction that existed before modern humans.

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What is the theory of evolution?

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The process by which species genetically change over time.

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What is a keystone species?

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A species that affects the type and abundance of other species in an ecosystem.

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How is biodiversity defined?

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The variety of Earth's species, the genetic material they contain, the ecosystems in which they live, and ecosystem processes.

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What is extinction?

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The permanent loss of a species from Earth.

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What factors contribute to species extinction?

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Habitat loss, climate change, pollution, overexploitation, and invasive species.

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What is an ecosystem?

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A community of living organisms and their physical environment interacting as a system.

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What is genetic diversity?

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The variety of genes within a species or population.

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What is the significance of biodiversity?

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Biodiversity contributes to ecosystem resilience, provides resources, and supports ecosystem services.

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What is an invasive species?

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A non-native species that spreads widely in a new habitat and causes harm to the environment.