Species diversity Index

• How would you define a species?

  Two organisms capable of breeding
• What are the features of a phylogenetic system of classification?

  • Based on evolutionary relationships
  • Classifies species using shared characteristics
  • Arranged in a hierarchy with no overlap
• Why is species recognition important in courtship?

  To ensure mating occurs within the same species
• What is species diversity?

  Number of different species and individuals
• What is genetic diversity?

  Variety of genes within a species
• What is ecosystem diversity?

  Range of different habitats in an area
• Why is species richness not a good measure of biodiversity?

  One species could dominate the area
• What are the two components of species diversity?

  1. Number of different species in an area
  2. Proportion of community made up of individual species
• How do you calculate the species diversity index?

  Formula: $d =$$\frac{N(N-1)}{\Sigma n(n-1)}$

  Where:

  • $d$ = species diversity index
  • $N$ = total number of organisms
  • $n$ = total number of organisms of each species
• What does a higher species diversity index indicate?

  • Greater species diversity