species

• what system did Carl Linnaeus come up with?

  the Binomial naming system.
• why is the binomial naming system good?

  it provides specificity and clarity with unique names.
• what is the core idea behind the binomial naming system?

  each organism is given a 2 word name with a set format.
• how do we name organisms with the binomial naming system?

  first name is the generic name. This is the name of the genus that the organism belongs to.

  second name is the specific name. This is the species itself.
• what are the rules of the binomial naming system?

  1. names are based on Latin or Greek names that are descriptive.
  2. when writing the names by hand they should be underlined.
  3. when typing the names they should be in italics.
  4. the generic name should have a capital, but not the specific name.
• when could we replace the specific name with 'sp'?

  if you are referring to a whole genus or unknown species with a known genus, you can replace the specific name with sp.
• does the naming of species change or stay constant? eg?

  the naming of species constantly changes and is dependent on current scientific knowledge. Polar Bear used to be called 'Tharlarctos maritimus' but is now called 'Urses maritimus'.
• why do species need to reproduce and what does this mean?

  species need to reproduce to make sure their genes survive over the generations so they must adapt to maximise the opportunities and successes or reproduction.
• how can individuals from the same species recognise each other?

  as they are physically alike because they share the same sorts of genes. Their biochemical processes are similar and their smells or scents can help to identify them as the same species.
• does anything else aside from genes affect biochemistry?

  its anatomy, physiology, habitual nature and behaviours.
• what is the most important behaviour? why?

  courtship and mating for maintaining the species, the behaviour made to make individuals attractive for reproduction and the production of strong, viable offspring to continue the cycle,
• what are courtship behaviours like?


  many and varied and serve lots of important purposes.
• what do courtship behaviours do?

  help identify the individual as part of the same species as reproduction with other species is genetically pointless as many hybrids can't reproduce so the genes aren't passed on.
• what happens once a suitable mate is identified from the same species?

  they must be receptive to mating and sexually active (some species can only breed in short periods of time). Males will often display to potential mates and there will be a sort of affirmative behaviour that shows the females willingness and ability to continue the courtship process.