Chapter 1–5: Organismal Ecology and Environmental Responses (Vocabulary)

Vocabulary flashcards covering core terms from organismal ecology, including morphology, physiology, behavior, environment, acclimation, adaptation, and related concepts.

Organismal ecology

The study of how an individual organism's morphology, physiology, and behavior determine its interactions with the environment.

Morphology

The physical form and structures of an organism that influence its interaction with the abiotic environment.

Physiology

The bodily functions and processes that enable an organism to survive and interact with its environment.

Behavior

Actions or responses of an organism that affect its interaction with the environment (e.g., plant stomatal movement).

Abiotic environment

Non-living components of the environment such as water, temperature, light, and nutrients.

Biotic environment

Living components of the environment, including other organisms, that interact with a species.

Abiotic niche

The portion of the environment defined by abiotic factors in which a species can persist.

Community ecology

The study of interactions among different species within a shared environment.

Environmental variation

Changes in environmental conditions across locations or over time.

Adaptation

Evolutionary change in a population that improves fit to the environment.

Acclimation

A physiological change within an individual in response to environmental change.

Allen's rule

An evolutionary rule: endotherms in colder climates tend to have shorter limbs to reduce heat loss.

Stomata

Small openings on leaf surfaces that regulate gas exchange and water loss.

Xylem

Plant tissue that transports water from roots to leaves.

Osmosis

Diffusion of water across a semipermeable membrane from higher to lower water potential.

Population

A group of individuals of the same species living in a particular area.

Evolution

Genetic changes in populations over generations that can lead to adaptations.