Species and taxonomy

Classification:

• Organisation of living organisms into a group
• This process is not randombut is based on a number of accepted principles

Species:

• Capable of breeding to prudce living, fertile offspring

Binomial system:

• It is a universal system based upon Latin or Greek names
• The first name is called the generic name denotes the genus to which the organism belongs
• The second name is called the specific name and denotes the species to which the organism belongs

Rules that apply to the use of the binomial system:

• The names are printed in italics, or if handwritten they are underlined to indicate that they are scientific names
• The first letter of the generic name is in upper case but the specific name is in lower case
• If the specific name is not knows it can be written as 'sp'

Courtship behaviour:

• The behaviour of members of the same species is more alike than that of members of different species
• Individuals can therefore recognise members of their own species by the way they act
• The ability to display a behaviour is genetically determined
• It too has evolved and it influences the chances of survival
• Used by males to determine whether the female is at a receptive stage

Reproduction -

• The means by which a species can survive over time
• Each individul has adaptations that help to ensure that their DNA is passed on through reproductive success to the next generation
• Females of most species only produce eggs at specific times
• It is therefore important to ensure that mating is successful and that the offspring have the maximum chance of survival

Courtship behaviour helps to achieve this by enabling individuals to -

• Recognise members of their own species - to ensure that mating only takes place between members of the same species because only members of the same species can produce fertile offspring
• Identify a mate that is capable of breeding - because both parters need to be sexually mature, fertile and receptive to mating
• Form a pair bond - that will lead to successful mating and raising of offspring
• Synchronise mating - so that it…