Notes for A3.1.4 Biological species concept - IB | RevisionDojo
A3.1.4 Biological species concept Notes
The Biological Species Concept (Modern Definition)
Definition
Biological Species Concept (BSC)
The biological species concept (BSC) defines a species as a group of organisms capable of interbreeding and producing fertile offspring, emphasizing reproductive isolation.
This is the primary definition used in modern biology, unlike the morphological concept.
This view focuses on reproductive compatibility and shared gene pools, not just appearance.
Example
Lions (Panthera leo) and tigers (Panthera tigris) are separate species because they do not interbreed in the wild.
Hybrids like ligers (male lion × female tiger) are typically sterile, preventing gene flow.
Key Principles of the BSC
Interbreeding ability: Members of the same species can mate and produce fertile offspring.
Shared gene pool: All individuals exchange genes within the same population, maintaining genetic continuity and diversity.
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Questions
Recap questions
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Question 1
Recap question
Some flowering plant species occasionally hybridize and produce fertile offspring that can backcross with parent species, yet the parent species remain genetically distinct. Which implication best illustrates a limitation of the biological species concept?
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What is the Biological Species Concept (BSC)?
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Note
Introduction to the Biological Species Concept
The Biological Species Concept (BSC) defines a species as a group of organisms that can interbreed and produce fertile offspring.
Emphasizes reproductive isolation, which prevents gene flow between species.
Focuses on natural conditions, not artificial settings.
ExampleLions (Panthera leo) and tigers (Panthera tigris) are separate species because they do not interbreed in the wild. Hybrids like ligers are typically sterile.DefinitionBiological Species Concept (BSC)A group of organisms capable of interbreeding and producing fertile offspring, emphasizing reproductive isolation.DefinitionReproductive IsolationMechanisms that prevent gene flow between different species, maintaining their genetic distinctness.AnalogyThink of species as clubs with strict membership rules - only those who meet certain criteria (reproductive compatibility) can join.
