Introduction to Ecological Systems - ESS 2

What is the biosphere?

The biosphere is the narrow, life-supporting zone around the Earth where air, water, and land meet.

What are the main components that make up the biosphere?

The biosphere contains all living organisms, including plants (flora), animals (fauna), fungi, and microorganisms.

How thick is the biosphere?

The biosphere measures approximately 20 km from top to bottom, with most life existing within a range of 6.5 km.

Define 'species'.

A species is a group of organisms sharing common characteristics that interbreed to produce fertile offspring.

What is the biological species concept?

The biological species concept states that members of the same species share a gene pool and can breed to produce similar offspring.

Define 'population'.

A population is a group of organisms of the same species living in the same area at the same time, capable of interbreeding.

What is an example of a species with multiple populations?

The Eastern Grey Kangaroo is a species with multiple populations across various regions of Australia.

What factors can contribute to unique characteristics of populations?

Local factors such as habitat, climate, and food availability can contribute to the unique characteristics of populations.

Define 'community' in ecological terms.

A community includes all different populations (of different species) living in the same area at the same time.

What does a community depend on from other species?

Each species within a community depends on other species for food, shelter, pollination, and seed dispersal.

Define 'habitat'.

A habitat is the local environment where an organism, species, population, or community normally lives.

What can a habitat description include?

A habitat description can include geographical and physical locations, as well as ecosystem requirements for survival.

What is an ecosystem?

An ecosystem refers to a community of living organisms interacting with their physical environment as a system within a specific area.

What are abiotic components in ecosystems?

Abiotic components are the non-living parts of an ecosystem, such as soil, water, air, sunlight, and temperature.

How do biotic and abiotic components interact in an ecosystem?

Biotic components interact with abiotic components to shape the structure and dynamics of the ecosystem.

In what ways do ecosystems vary?

Ecosystems vary in size and characteristics, influenced by geography, climate, and species present.

What is energy flow in ecosystems primarily captured by?

Energy flow in ecosystems is primarily captured by photosynthetic organisms such as plants and algae.

How is energy lost in ecosystems?

Energy is lost through heat during cellular respiration, trophic transfers, and radiated from the Earth's surface into space.

What forms can matter take as it enters or exits ecosystems?

Matter can enter or exit ecosystems in the form of water, nutrients, gases, or waste products produced by animals.

What are the levels of organization in an ecosystem?

The levels of organization in an ecosystem include individual organisms, populations, communities, ecosystems, and the biosphere.

What do the levels of organization represent?

The levels of organization represent different scales of biological interaction and energy flow.

What interactions can define an ecosystem's dynamics?

Interactions between biotic and abiotic components define an ecosystem's dynamics and biodiversity.

Why are ecosystems considered open systems?

Ecosystems are open systems because both energy and matter can enter and exit them.

Give an example of how different populations may not interbreed.

Eastern Grey Kangaroo populations are geographically isolated and rarely interbreed despite being the same species.

How do ecosystems influence biodiversity?

Ecosystems shape biodiversity through interactions that affect species richness and variety in the habitat.

Why is the biosphere considered a complex system?

The biosphere is complex due to the interaction of living communities with each other and with the non-living components of Earth.