This lecture covers two major topics. Biodiversity refers to the richness of biological life on earth. This richness is not evenly distributed, rather it is a function of electromagnetic radiation input. After all, the primary source of energy is our sun. Since most of the sun's energy strikes between 0 and 30 N & S, this is the region where one would expect the greatest biodiversity. As one move up in latitude toward the poles there is less energy input, hence lower biodiversity generally. The polar oceans can be quite rich in phytoplankton however.
Taxonomy refers the the method that scientists worldwide use to classify organisms.
There no single chapter in the textbook devoted to either of these topics. Instead, refer to the Index in the back of the book for several single page references which will supplement the lecture presentation on biodiversity.
A brief discuss of taxonomy (scientific classification) can be found on pages 282, 283, and 306-307 in the text.
Refer to page 156 - Chapter Summary in Survey of Biology Lecture Notes - for the terms and key points you need to know. The Key Points are your guide to success in the course because they focus your attention on those topics upon which you need to concentrate your study to be optimally prepared for the upcoming examination.
Also study the references to the textbook which are indicated in the Survey of Biology Lecture Notes.
Crossword for Chapter 12 due upon arrival.
Memorize Figure 12.2 "Basic Binomial Classification" in your laboratory manual "Exploring the Natural World."
Quiz everyone in the group on the flashcards labeled "Biodiversity & Taxonomy." Try to complete this before the lecture called "Biodiversity and Taxonomy."
Chapter 15 Tracing Evolutionary History
15B Classification Schemes