Untitled Flashcard Set

What is the definition of ecology as proposed by Ernst Haeckel in 1869?

Ecology is the study of the interactions among organisms and between organisms and their physical environment.

What are the five levels of ecological organization hierarchy?

Individual organisms, populations, communities, ecosystems, and the biosphere.

What are the four components of the biosphere?

Atmosphere (air), hydrosphere (water), geosphere (soil, rocks), and biosphere (living things).

What is one of the main regulatory functions of ecosystems?

Regulates ecological processes, maintains the stability of life systems, and cycles nutrients.

What do autotrophs do in an ecosystem?

Autotrophs produce food through photosynthesis, such as green plants.

What are the three types of consumers in an ecosystem?

Primary consumers (herbivores), secondary consumers (carnivores), and tertiary consumers (apex predators).

What is primary productivity in an ecosystem?

The production of new organic matter or biomass by producers (plants) over a period of time.

Describe the difference between a food chain and a food web.

A food chain is a linear path of energy flow, while a food web is a complex network formed by multiple interconnected food chains.

What are the stages of the nitrogen cycle?

1. Nitrogen Fixation, 2. Nitrification, 3. Assimilation, 4. Ammonification, 5. Denitrification.

What is habitat destruction and how does it impact ecosystems?

Habitat destruction refers to the alteration or removal of natural environments, which disrupts ecosystems.

What is mutualism in symbiotic relationships?

A type of symbiosis where both parties benefit.

What is the term for when one organism preys on another?

Predation.

What is competition in an ecological context?

The struggle between organisms for limited resources.

What is one impact of pollution on ecosystems?

Pollution from industrial and domestic waste can harm organisms and disrupt ecological processes.

What are invasive alien species?

Species that disrupt native ecosystems and can lead to declines in biodiversity.