Ecology
What is biodiversity?
The genetic variation within and among species in an ecosystem
The amount of biomass in an ecosystem
The number of individuals in a population
The total number of species in an ecosystem
In what way do decomposers contribute to nutrient cycling within an ecosystem?
They produce glucose during photosynthesis, providing food for consumers
They absorb sunlight using chlorophyll, thus sustaining food webs
They break down organic matter, releasing nutrients back into the soil
They fix nitrogen gas, converting it into usable forms for plants
What is the difference between a keystone species and a flagship species?
A keystone species is one that is used as a symbol to raise awareness of conservation efforts, while a flagship species is essential to the functioning of an ecosystem
A keystone species is a rare and endangered species, while a flagship species is common and widespread
A keystone species is an indicator of ecosystem health, while a flagship species is a predator at the top of the food chain
A keystone species is essential to the functioning of an ecosystem, while a flagship species is used as a symbol to raise awareness of conservation efforts
Which type of cellular division is primarily responsible for increasing biodiversity through genetic variation?
Budding
Binary fission
Mitosis
Meiosis
What adaptation most significantly improves energy efficiency within a predator-prey relationship in a cold environment?
Counter-current heat exchange in extremities of predators
Camouflage adaptations that allow prey animals better concealment from predators on snow-covered ground
Seasonal migration patterns of prey animals to warmer regions
Development of larger jaws in predators for increased bite force
Which of the following would most likely increase the biodiversity within an ecosystem?
A stable climate that allows for a variety of niches.
An introduction of an invasive species that disrupts existing food webs.
A natural disaster that reduces habitat complexity and availability.
A single dominant species outcompeting others for resources.
Which term describes a group of individuals of the same species living in a particular geographic area?
Community
Population
Ecosystem
Biosphere

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How does genetic diversity within a plant population contribute to ecosystem resilience after a drought period ends?
Genetic homogeneity enhances resistance against pests during droughts, though it may not affect post-drought resilience directly.
Reduced genetic variability lowers competition for resources during droughts but doesn't factor into resilience afterwards.
High genetic variance ensures some individuals are adapted for water efficiency, enabling survival and reproduction post-drought.
Uniform genetics facilitate synchronized flowering post-drought, increasing pollination efficiency but not overall resilience.
Which adaptation would most immediately increase an animal's chances of survival in a rapidly changing environment?
Enlargement of physical structures like claws or teeth to dominate other animals.
A flexible behavior that allows for learning new responses to environmental changes.
Synthesis of toxins for defense against an increased number of predators.
Development of specialized feeding habits for exploiting one abundant resource.
How might a sudden increase in an herbivorous insect population affect the biodiversity within its ecosystem?
It could enhance genetic variability in plants by promoting cross-pollination between different species.
It could decrease plant biodiversity due to overconsumption leading to the decline of certain plant species.
It may increase animal biodiversity by providing more food resources for higher trophic levels.
It would stabilize predator populations through increased predation on the insects.