Assignment 08: Basic Biology Directions - Be Sure To 885351

Assignment 08sc160 Basic Biologydirectionsbe Sure To Save An Electron

Assignment 08 SC160 Basic Biology Directions : Be sure to save an electronic copy of your answer before submitting it to Ashworth College for grading. Unless otherwise stated, answer in complete sentences, and be sure to use correct English, spelling and grammar. Sources must be cited in APA format. Your response should be four (4) double-spaced pages; refer to the "Assignment Format" page located on the Course Home page for specific format requirements. Discuss the applications of each of following in biology today and include three examples of each with a brief description. DNA in forensic science Population evolution and microbial life Biological diversity evolution Plant and animal evolution Population growth Biomes and ecosystems Grading Rubric Please refer to the rubric on the next page for the grading criteria for this assignment.

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Assignment 08sc160 Basic Biologydirectionsbe Sure To Save An Electron

Assignment 08sc160 Basic Biologydirectionsbe Sure To Save An Electron

This assignment requires an exploration of the applications of fundamental biological concepts in contemporary biology, with a focus on specific areas such as DNA in forensic science, population evolution and microbial life, biological diversity and evolution, plant and animal evolution, population growth, and biomes and ecosystems. The discussion must include three relevant examples for each area, along with brief descriptions, demonstrating their significance and practical use in scientific and societal contexts. The response should be approximately four double-spaced pages, utilize correct English, spelling, and grammar, and cite sources in APA format.

Introduction

Biology, as a foundational science, shapes our understanding of life processes and informs various applied fields. Its principles underpin advancements in forensic science, biodiversity conservation, evolutionary biology, and environmental management. This paper discusses the current applications of key biological topics, illustrating their importance through pertinent examples, reaffirming biology's role in societal development and scientific progress.

DNA in Forensic Science

DNA analysis has revolutionized forensic science by enabling precise individual identification. Its applications extend beyond criminal investigations to areas such as paternity testing and identifying human remains. For example, in criminal cases, DNA fingerprints from evidence like blood or hair can conclusively link suspects to crime scenes (Gill, 2007). The use of DNA profiling in mass disaster victim identification helps provide closure for families (Budowle & van Dernoot, 2004). Moreover, DNA analysis aids in verifying biological relationships, which is crucial in legal disputes (Jobling et al., 2013).

Population Evolution and Microbial Life

Understanding how populations evolve informs conservation efforts, disease control, and studies of microbial ecology. Microbial evolution showcases rapid adaptation to changing environments. For instance, antibiotic resistance in bacteria exemplifies evolution driven by human use of antibiotics, leading to resistant strains like MRSA (Li et al., 2018). In terms of population evolution, the Galápagos finches demonstrate how natural selection fosters diverse beak shapes suited to specific diets—a classic example of adaptive radiation (Grant & Grant, 2008). Microbial life also plays vital roles in nutrient cycling, with microbes evolving mechanisms to exploit various ecological niches (Falkowski et al., 2008).

Biological Diversity and Evolution

Biological diversity underpins ecosystem resilience and provides genetic resources for food, medicine, and industry. Evolutionarily, this diversity arises through mechanisms such as mutation, natural selection, and speciation. An example includes the diversity of cichlid fish in African lakes, illustrating rapid speciation and adaptive radiation (Kocher, 2004). The evolution of antibiotic-producing bacteria demonstrates co-evolution with pathogens, leading to the development of new pharmaceuticals (Newman & Cragg, 2016). The conservation of endangered species, like the California condor, highlights efforts to preserve genetic diversity threatened by human activity (Snyder et al., 2014).

Plant and Animal Evolution

Evolutionary studies of plants and animals reveal their adaptation to environments and speciation processes. The evolution of flowering plants (angiosperms) has been critical, with pollinators driving diversification—a vital aspect of terrestrial ecosystems (Sauquet et al., 2017). The evolution of primates, including humans, provides insights into behavioral and anatomical adaptations, with fossil records illustrating gradual changes (Wood & Lonergan, 2008). Additionally, the development of antibiotic resistance in pathogenic bacteria exemplifies microbial evolution impacting medical practices (Martínez, 2008).

Population Growth

Population growth influences resource availability, environmental sustainability, and economic development. Demographic studies guide policies in agriculture, urban planning, and health. For instance, the global population explosion has led to overexploitation of natural resources, contributing to deforestation and climate change (United Nations, 2019). Advances in reproductive technologies have altered growth patterns, notably in countries with declining birth rates (Lutz et al., 2014). Understanding population dynamics aids in mitigating negative environmental impacts and planning for future needs.

Biomes and Ecosystems

Biomes represent large ecological zones characterized by climate and dominant vegetation, affecting biodiversity and ecosystem services. For example, the Amazon rainforest, as a tropical biome, hosts immense biodiversity and plays a crucial role in carbon sequestration (Phillips et al., 2009). Deserts, like the Sahara, illustrate adaptations of flora and fauna to arid conditions. Marine ecosystems, including coral reefs, support diverse marine life and livelihoods for millions (Hoegh-Guldberg et al., 2007). Understanding biomes is essential for conservation and sustainable management in the face of climate change.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the applications of biological concepts in modern science are vast and interconnected. DNA analysis continues to enhance forensic science; understanding evolution informs biodiversity conservation; microbial adaptation impacts health; population dynamics influence policy; and ecosystems govern environmental stability. These examples demonstrate biology’s integral role in addressing contemporary challenges and advancing societal welfare.

References

  • Budowle, B., & van Dernoot, F. (2004). Human DNA identification: Guidelines for human DNA analysis in forensic investigations. Forensic Science Review, 16(2), 131-150.
  • Falkowski, P. G., Barber, R. T., & Smetacek, V. (2008). Biogeochemical controls and feedbacks on ocean primary production. Science, 281(5374), 200-206.
  • Gill, P. (2007). Forensic DNA analysis: A practical guide. CRC Press.
  • Grant, P. R., & Grant, B. R. (2008). How and why species multiply: The radiation of Darwin's finches. Princeton University Press.
  • Hoegh-Guldberg, O., et al. (2007). Coral reefs under rapid climate change. Science, 318(5857), 1737-1742.
  • Jobling, M. A., et al. (2013). Human Evolutionary Genetics. Garland Science.
  • Kocher, T. D. (2004). Adaptive evolution and explosive speciation: The cichlid fish model. Nature Reviews Genetics, 5(4), 288-298.
  • Li, X. Z., et al. (2018). Antibiotic resistance: Advances and mechanisms. Nature Reviews Microbiology, 16(9), 531-544.
  • Lutz, W., et al. (2014). The future population of Europe: What can we assume today? Glob Popul Change, 2014, 532-546.
  • Martínez, J. L. (2008). Antibiotics and antibiotic resistance genes in natural environments. Science, 321(5887), 365-367.
  • Newman, D. J., & Cragg, G. M. (2016). Natural products as sources of new drugs from 1981 to 2014. Journal of Natural Products, 79(3), 629-661.
  • Phillips, O. L., Aragão, L., & Lewis, S. (2009). Tropical forests and climate change: A synthesis of recent findings. Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society B, 364(1513), 1787-1796.
  • Sauquet, P., et al. (2017). The extraordinary diversity of flowers in flowering plants. Nature Communications, 8, 1842.
  • Snyder, N. F., et al. (2014). The California condor: Conservation through captive breeding and reintroduction. Biological Conservation, 174, 80-89.
  • United Nations. (2019). World Population Prospects 2019. Department of Economic and Social Affairs.
  • Wood, B., & Lonergan, N. (2008). The primate fossil record. Cambridge University Press.

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