Topic 8 of 8 · Form 6
Classification, biodiversity, conservation and genetic technology
Three domains (Bacteria, Archaea, Eukarya) and kingdoms; taxonomic hierarchy; viruses classification.
Notes for this topic 1 file, in order
Create a free account to download PDFs.
Classification
Three domains (Bacteria, Archaea, Eukarya) and kingdoms; taxonomic hierarchy; viruses classification.
Biodiversity
Species diversity, genetic diversity and ecosystem diversity; sampling (quadrats, transects, mark–release–recapture); Simpson's index of diversity D = 1 − Σ(n/N)²; correlation (Spearman's rank and Pearson's).
Worked example: A sample contains three species with 10, 20 and 10 individuals. Calculate Simpson's index.
N = 40 → Σ(n/N)² = 0.0625 + 0.25 + 0.0625 = 0.375 → D = 0.625
Conservation
Threats (habitat loss, overexploitation, climate change, invasive species); national parks, zoos, seed banks, assisted reproduction, CITES; community conservation.
Genetic technology
Restriction enzymes, ligase, plasmid vectors, PCR, gel electrophoresis, DNA sequencing, genetically modified organisms (e.g. Bt crops, GM insulin-producing bacteria), gene therapy, genetic screening and ethical issues.
Check yourself
- Name the three domains of life.
- What is the role of DNA ligase?
- Give one advantage and one concern about GM crops.
Show answers
- Bacteria, Archaea and Eukarya.
- To join DNA fragments by forming phosphodiester bonds.
- Advantage: pest resistance/higher yield; concern: gene flow to wild plants, loss of biodiversity, cost to farmers.
Questions about this topic (0)
No questions about this topic yet.
Sign in or create a free account to join in.