| k |
the symbol for Ecological capacity |
|
| kaapvaal craton |
Ancient core of the southern
African continent, formed between 3 600 and
3 100 million years ago; consists mainly of
granodiorite batholiths and greenstone belts |
|
| karoo |
An arid part of the interior plateau in the temperate zone of Southern Africa, dominated by dwarf shrubs and adjoining the Highveld grassland. |
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| keratin |
a hard natural substance that is the main component in hair, nails, hooves and horns |
|
| keratinisation |
hardening, usually of the skin |
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| keystone species |
a species that is fundamental in the functioning in a specific ecosystem. Should that species be removed or die that whole ecosystem would be highly disrupted |
|
| kibaran belt |
Linear zones of metamorphic rocks
on the African continent formed about 1 200
to 1 000 million years ago |
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| kimberlite |
Rare igneous rock consisting of silicate
minerals rich in magnesium, iron and alkali
metals; it is the source rock of diamonds |
|
| kin selection |
Selection favouring care of relatives; e.g., by caring for full siblings, individuals gain as much genetic benefit as they would by raising their own young, since both carry half their genes. |
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| kleptoparasite |
Small spiders that live on the webs of larger species and steal (portions of) small prey that get trapped in the web. E.g. mercury spiders. |
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| komatiite |
Fine-grained igneous (volcanic) rock
consisting of silicate minerals rich in magnesium and iron (mainly olivine and pyroxene) |
|
| koppie |
(Afrikaans for head). A small hill, typically a rock outcrop, where various mammals find safety, shelter, and food. |
|
| koppie (afrikaans for head) |
A small hill, typically a rock outcrop, where various mammals find safety, shelter, and food. |
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