All Flashcards
Define 'Ecosystem'.
A specific place where living (biotic) things interact with non-living (abiotic) things.
What are 'Biotic' factors?
Living components of an ecosystem, such as plants, animals, and bacteria.
What are 'Abiotic' factors?
Non-living components of an ecosystem, such as rocks, soil, air, and water.
Define 'Biosphere'.
All the ecosystems on Earth combined.
Define 'Niche'.
The role a species plays in its ecosystem.
Define 'Keystone Species'.
A species with a disproportionately large impact on its ecosystem, relative to its abundance.
What are 'Ecosystem Engineers'?
Keystone species that create or modify habitats.
Define 'Mutualism'.
A symbiotic relationship where both species benefit (+/+).
Define 'Commensalism'.
A symbiotic relationship where one species benefits and the other is unaffected (+/0).
Define 'Parasitism'.
A symbiotic relationship where one species benefits and the other is harmed (+/-).
What is the importance of biotic and abiotic interactions?
These interactions drive ecosystem processes and determine the distribution and abundance of species.
Explain predator-prey relationships.
Predators control prey populations; prey develop defenses. It's an evolutionary arms race.
Describe mutualism.
A symbiotic relationship where both species benefit (+/+).
Describe commensalism.
A symbiotic relationship where one species benefits, and the other is unaffected (+/0).
Describe parasitism.
A symbiotic relationship where one species benefits, and the other is harmed (+/-).
What happens when niches overlap too much?
Competition intensifies for limited resources.
What is the consequence of keystone species removal?
The loss of a keystone species can cause a domino effect, dramatically changing the ecosystem.
How do ecosystem engineers modify habitats?
They create or modify habitats, helping other species.
Why are ecosystem dynamics important?
Understanding these dynamics is crucial for predicting how ecosystems will respond to changes like climate change or human activities.
How does resource partitioning reduce competition?
It allows species to share limited resources by using different parts of the resource or accessing it at different times.
What is the effect of increased sea urchin populations on kelp forests?
Increased sea urchin populations lead to the destruction of kelp forests, impacting other species.
How can the removal of a keystone predator affect an ecosystem?
It can lead to a trophic cascade, causing significant changes in the populations of other species.
What is the effect of competition on species evolution?
Natural selection favors species that are better at accessing resources, leading to evolutionary changes.
How do elephants modify their environment?
Elephants create watering holes and clear vegetation, helping other species.
What are the consequences of climate change on ecosystems?
Climate change can alter ecosystem stability and resilience, leading to shifts in species distribution and abundance.