Seven Themes Unify the Science of Biology Biology Ms. Haut

Biology Study of life Biologists recognize that all living things share certain characteristics

Characteristics of Life 1. Cellular structure and function All living things made of one or more cells Cells are the smallest unit capable of all life functions

Characteristics of Life 2. Reproduction Process of making more of one’s own kind No organism lives forever; necessary part of living

Characteristics of Life 3. Metabolism Sum of all chemical reactions carried out in an organism All energy originates from the sun Plants convert solar energy into sugar Animal use/store energy in own tissues

Characteristics of Life 4. Homeostasis Maintenance of stable internal conditions despite changes in external conditions

Characteristics of Life 5. Heredity Passing of traits from parent(s) to offspring Genes are inherited from parent(s)

Characteristics of Life 6. Evolution Change over time New species (group of genetically similar organisms that can produce fertile offspring) can develop over time if enough changes occur Natural selection— survival of the fittest

Characteristics of Life 7. Interdependence Organisms have evolved to live and interact with other organisms Ecology is the study of interactions of living organisms with one another and their environment Food webs