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.