Flashcards: Fundamentals of Biological Diversity — 24 cards

Kingdom Monera — definition?

Consists solely of bacteria, prokaryotic organisms.

Prokaryotic cells — features?

Lack a nucleus, have cell walls, and are usually unicellular.

Mycoplasma — characteristic?

Bacteria lacking a cell wall, smallest living cells.

Viruses — nature?

Acellular entities requiring a host to replicate.

Viroids — composition?

Small infectious RNA molecules without a protein coat.

Prions — cause?

Infectious proteins causing neurodegenerative diseases.

Lichens — symbiosis?

Fungi and photosynthetic algae or cyanobacteria.

Plant leaves — main function?

Photosynthesis and gas exchange.

Vascular bundles — location?

In stems and leaves, for transport of water and nutrients.

Photosynthesis pigments — role?

Absorb light energy for converting CO2 and water into glucose.

Glycolysis — location?

Cytoplasm, breaks down glucose anaerobically.

Krebs cycle — location?

Mitochondrial matrix, oxidizes acetyl-CoA.

Electron transport chain — purpose?

Produces ATP by creating a proton gradient.

Plant hormones — examples?

Auxins, gibberellins, cytokinins.

Auxins — role?

Promote cell elongation and root initiation.

Cell organelles — site of ATP?

Mitochondria.

Enzymes — classification basis?

Type of reaction catalyzed, e.g., oxidoreductases.

Hormones — target?

Specific cells or organs with receptors.

Pollination — process?

Transfer of pollen from anther to stigma.

Fertilization — event?

Fusion of sperm and ovum.

DNA replication — key enzyme?

DNA polymerase.

Gene regulation — mechanism?

Transcription factors and epigenetic modifications.

Population density — definition?

Number of individuals per unit area or volume.

Biodiversity — importance?

Ensures ecosystem stability and resilience.