B4.2 Ecological Niches (SL)

Flashcards covering key concepts related to nutrition and ecological niches based on the provided lecture notes.

Ecological niche

The role of a species in its ecosystem, defined by its interactions with abiotic and biotic factors.

Competitive exclusion

A principle stating that two species competing for the same resources cannot coexist if other ecological factors remain constant.

Resource partitioning

The division of resources among species to reduce competition and allow coexistence.

Fundamental niche

The full range of conditions under which an organism can survive and reproduce.

Realized niche

The actual conditions and resources an organism utilizes after interactions with other species.

Obligate anaerobes

Organisms that can only survive in the absence of oxygen.

Obligate aerobes

Organisms that require oxygen to survive.

Facultative anaerobes

Organisms that can survive with or without oxygen, using different modes of respiration.

Photosynthesis

The process by which autotrophs convert light energy into chemical energy to produce food.

Holozoic nutrition

A mode of nutrition in which heterotrophs ingest and digest organic nutrients internally.

Saprotrophic nutrition

A type of heterotrophic nutrition where organisms secrete enzymes to break down non-living organic matter.

Mixotrophic nutrition

A type of nutrition where organisms utilize both autotrophic and heterotrophic methods.

Metabolic diversity in Archaea

The ability of Archaea to perform various nutrition modes, including phototrophy and methanogenesis.

Adaptations for herbivory

Physical or behavioral traits that help herbivores feed on plants or avoid being eaten.

Adaptations for carnivory

Traits that aid predators in hunting, capturing, and consuming prey.

Adaptations for omnivory

Features in dentition and digestive systems that allow for a diet of both plant and animal matter.

Dentition and diet relationship

The correlation between the structure of teeth and the dietary habits of organisms.