Biological Terms
Biology, the study of life, is filled with a rich vocabulary that helps us understand the complexity of living organisms and their interactions. From fundamental terms like “cell” and “DNA” to more specific concepts like “photosynthesis” and “natural selection,” each word opens a window to deeper understanding. Grasping these terms is essential for understanding biology, whether you’re a student, educator, or just curious.
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What Are Biological Terms?
Biological terms refer to the specific language and vocabulary used in the field of biology. These terms cover concepts ranging from molecular biology and genetics to ecology and zoology.
They allow us to describe and categorize biological processes, organisms, and phenomena with precision.
For example, terms like photosynthesis and biodiversity provide clarity and specificity necessary for scientific communication. Typically, these terms are either derived from Latin or Greek words. This historical basis helps maintain consistency and accuracy in scientific literature.
Biological Terms with Pictures
DNA Meaning
GMO Meaning
Perennial vs. Annual
List of Biological Terms
- Abiotic
- Adaptation
- Aerobic
- Allele
- Amino Acid
- Anaerobic
- Anatomy
- Antibody
- Antigen
- Archaea
- Asexual Reproduction
- Autotroph
- Bacteria
- Biodiversity
- Biomass
- Biome
- Biosphere
- Biotic
- Cell
- Cell Membrane
- Cell Wall
- Chlorophyll
- Chloroplast
- Chromosome
- Cloning
- Codon
- Commensalism
- Community
- Cytoplasm
- Decomposer
- Deoxyribonucleic Acid (DNA)
- Diffusion
- Ecology
- Ecosystem
- Embryo
- Endemic
- Endoplasmic Reticulum
- Enzyme
- Eukaryote
- Evolution
- Exoskeleton
- Extinction
- Fertilization
- Food Chain
- Food Web
- Fungi
- Gamete
- Gene
- Genetic Drift
- Genotype
- Germination
- Habitat
- Herbivore
- Heterotroph
- Homeostasis
- Hormone
- Hybrid
- Immune System
- Infection
- Inheritance
- Insect
- Invertebrate
- Kingdom
- Lipid
- Mammal
- Meiosis
- Metabolism
- Microorganism
- Mitochondria
- Mitosis
- Mutation
- Natural Selection
- Niche
- Nucleic Acid
- Nucleus
- Omnivore
- Organ
- Organism
- Osmosis
- Parasitism
- Pathogen
- Photosynthesis
- Phylum
- Plasma Membrane
- Plasmid
- Population
- Predator
- Prey
- Producer
- Protein
- Prokaryote
- Protist
- Recessive
- Reproduction
- Ribonucleic Acid (RNA)
- Ribosome
- Species
- Symbiosis
- Taxonomy
- Tissue
- Trait
- Transcription
- Translation
- Vaccine
- Variation
- Vertebrate
- Virus
- Xylem
- Zygote
Key Biological Terms With Examples
Cell: The basic unit of life. All living organisms are made up of cells. For example, humans are composed of trillions of cells, each performing specific functions.
DNA: Short for deoxyribonucleic acid, DNA carries genetic information in living beings. For instance, our unique genetic code is written in the DNA found in each cell’s nucleus.
Photosynthesis: The process by which plants convert sunlight into food. During photosynthesis, plants absorb sunlight and use it to transform carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen.
Homeostasis: The maintenance of a stable internal environment by an organism. Our bodies regulate temperature, pH levels, and other variables to keep conditions steady despite changes in the external environment.
Evolution: The process by which species of organisms change over time through variation and natural selection. Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution by natural selection is a foundational concept in biology.
Ecosystem: A community of living organisms in conjunction with the non-living components of their environment. An example of an ecosystem is a forest, which includes trees, animals, soil, and water components interacting together.
Enzyme: A protein that accelerates biochemical reactions. For example, the enzyme amylase, found in our saliva, helps break down carbohydrates into simple sugars.
Mutation: A change in the DNA sequence. Mutations can be caused by errors during DNA replication or exposure to certain chemicals. Some mutations can lead to genetic disorders or provide advantages in survival.
Biodiversity: The variety of life in a particular habitat or ecosystem. A tropical rainforest, for example, is known for its high level of biodiversity, with numerous species of plants, animals, and microorganisms.
Antibodies: Proteins produced by the immune system to help fight infections. When we receive a vaccine, it stimulates our body to produce antibodies against a specific pathogen.