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Extinction 1 The termination of any lineage of organisms, from subspecies to
species and higher taxonomic categories from genera to phyla. Extinction
can be local, in which one or more populations of a species or another
unit vanish but others survive elsewhere, or total (global), in which all the
populations vanish. When biologists speak of extinction without further
qualifications, they mean total extinction.
Extirpate A species no longer occurring where it once lived; to entirely
remove from an area. For example, the mountain lion has been extirpated
from the Northeast, but is still found in much of the western U.S.
Extractive reserves 1 A wild habitat from which timber, latex and other natural
materials are taken on a sustained yield basis with minimal environmental
damage and, ideally, without the extinction of native species.
Fern A flowerless, seedless lower vascular plant that reproduces by spores.
Field laboratory site A temporary or permanent place where scientific research,
usually having to do with the environment, is prepared and/or carried out.
Flowering plant A plant that produces flowers, fruit, and seeds and is more
complex than non-flowering plants, such as conifers (evergreens) or fungi.
Fungi A group of plants, such as mushrooms, molds, rusts, and mildews,
which derive nutrients from decomposing organic matter instead of
through photosynthesis because they lack chlorophyll.
Genetic adaptation A change in genetic composition that occurs naturally over
time so that an organism is more efficient and competitive in its environment.
Genetics A branch of biology that deals with the heredity and variation of
DNA in organisms.
Genus 1 A group of similar species of common descent. Examples: Canis, comprising
the wolf, domestic dog, and similar species; and Quercus, the oaks.
Geological time Time periods throughout the history of the earth.
Giant panda A mammal that resembles the bear but is actually related to the
raccoon. It is found only in isolated parts of China and now in some zoos.
It eats mainly bamboo and small rodents or fish.
B i o l o g i c a l
40 D i v e r s i t y