Evolution and Genetics

Genetics  A branch of biology that deals with the inherited traits and differences of organisms.

Inherited Trait  A trait that is genetically inherited or passed down from generation to ge neration. Features you are born with, such as eye and hair color.

Characteristics  a special quality or appearance (trait) that makes an individual or group different from others.

Offspring  the young of a person, animal, or plant.

Species  A class of things of the same kind and with the same scientific name based on traits.

Culture  The characteristic features of everyday life shared by a species.

Instincts  an act or course of action in response to a stimulus that is and is automatic rather than learned, which are passed from parent to offspring.

Reflex  an automatic (involuntary) response to a stimulus in which a nerve message passes from a sense organ to the spinal cord and then to a point of action, often without first passing to the brain.

Population Variations  Biological Species- a group of organisms having a genetic makeup (DNQ) that is similar enough to create offspring.  Population- a species group that displays similar traits, such as size.  Geographical Isolation- populations that become separated by changes in the environment will begin to adapt to its environment, which can then be genetically passed down through generations altering the species inherited traits.

Behavior  anything that a living species does that involves action and response to stimulation.

Learned Behavior  Something that is taught, that is not an instinct or reflex; such as, learning to eat with a fork because your instincts tell you, you need to eat.

Environmental Influences  An element in the environment that impacts survival by physical, cultural, demographic changes that affects the survival, operations, and growth of an organization. Environmental influences can interfere with inherited traits, such as poor nutrition affecting growth or babies who are neglected may not fully develop certain brain functions.

Adaptations  adjustment to environmental conditions in an organism or its parts that allow it to fit better in the conditions of which it lives.