| Biological Definition of Species | Group of organisms which can mate with each other and produce viable offspring
[Hybrids are NOT species as they are infertile (Male donkey + Female Horse = Mule, Zebra + Donkey = Zonkey, Lion + Tiger = Liger)] |
| Flaws in the Biological Definition of Species | Asexual Reproduction: No mating occurs, however, bacteria are still considered as species
Extinct Organisms: Mating between some species is unknown |
| Morphological Definition of Species | Characteristics of physical form such as shape, size, the presence/absence of physical features |
| Phylogenetic Definition of Species | Trace and comparison of DNA |
| Interspecific Competition | Both species are harmed: Species competing/fighting for limited resources |
| Predation | A species benefits whilst the other is harmed: Predator kills and eats another organism |
| Micro-predation | A species benefits whilst the other is harmed: Predator kills and eats part of another organism |
| Symbiosis | An ecological relationship in which two species live together in close association with eachother |
| Parasition | Symbiotic relationship in which a parasite benefits at the expense of the host - parasite does not aim to kill the host
[Ticks, Diseases] |
| Mutualism | Species association wherein both parties benefit
[Clownfish with sea anemone] |
| Commensalism | Symbiotic relationship in which one species benefits and the other is not benefited nor harmed
[Bird's nest in a tree] |
| Amensalism | Symbiotic relationship wherein one species benefits and the other neither benefits nor is harmed |
| Habitat | Natural home of an organism: includes all the organism's requirements |
| Macrohabitat | Large scale place in which a species lives, providing needs such as food, water and conditions for reproduction [City/Town] |
| Microhabitat | Immediate, small scale place in which a species lives [Suburb/Street] |
