Flashcard: Fundamentals of Organismal Biology — 18 carte

Characteristics of Living Organisms

Traits that distinguish living entities from non-living matter.

Physiological Responses — example?

Rapid functional reactions like sweating or shivering.

Behavioral Responses — example?

Actions like seeking shade or burrowing.

Long-term Adaptation — example?

Thick fur in cold climates or increased pigmentation in deserts.

Homeostasis — definition?

Maintaining a stable internal environment.

Evolutionary Adaptation — process?

Genetic or phenotypic changes over generations for survival.

Homeostasis — key concept?

Regulation via feedback mechanisms to maintain stability.

Negative feedback — role?

Reduces or counteracts original stimulus.

Positive feedback — role?

Amplifies response, often in specific events.

Feedback — function?

Self-regulation of physiological systems.

Anatomy — focus?

Structure of body parts.

Physiology — focus?

Functions and processes of body parts.

Anatomy vs Physiology — difference?

Structure vs. function.

Countercurrent exchange system — purpose?

Efficient transfer of heat or substances.

Endothermy — definition?

Internal heat production to maintain temperature.

Ectothermy — definition?

Body temperature depends on external environment.

Homeothermy — characteristic?

Stable internal temperature despite external changes.

Poikilothermy — characteristic?

Body temperature varies with environment.