Topic 5 - On the wild side 🌍🪲

Define Biosphere

The areas on earth & its atmosphere inhabited by living things.

Define Ecosystem

A self-sustaining community of organisms interacting with each other.

Living factors in an ecosystem are referred to as …. factors & the non-living factors are referred to as .… factors.

Living factors in an ecosystem are referred to as [BIOTIC] factors & the non-living factors are referred to as [ABIOTIC] factors.

What is Niche?

the role an organism plays in a community.

What is ecological succession?

Ecological succession refers to the gradual and predictable process of change in the species composition and structure of an ecosystem over time.

Define: Primary succession

Also known as COLONISATION & occurs where there has never been a community before.

What are pioneer species?

Pioneer species are the first organisms to colonize a barren or disturbed area. They are able to thrive in harsh conditions with lacking resources. They make conditions suitable eventually allowing the process of succession to begin.

Define Climax community

The final stage of ecological succession, when a stable and self-sustaining community of plants and animals is reached.

Define Secondary succession

Occurs when an existing community has been cleared.

Define Deflected succession

Occurs when a community only remains stable because human activity prevents any further succession.

What is the purpose of photosynthesis?

1. To capture light energy & transfer it into chemical energy stored in organic molecules.

2. To provide a supply of organic molecules needed for the plant’s survival

What are Anthropogenic factors

The effects of rising human activity.