Ecosystem Functioning and Biodiversity

These flashcards cover key concepts related to ecosystem functioning, energy flow, nutrient cycles, and the impact of biodiversity on environmental stability and resilience.

Energy flows

The movement of energy through an ecosystem from producers to consumers to decomposers.

Producers

Organisms, primarily plants, that convert sunlight into usable chemical energy via photosynthesis.

Consumers

Organisms that feed on producers, transferring energy up the food chain.

Decomposers

Bacteria and fungi that break down dead organic matter, recycling nutrients back into the soil.

Trophic cascade

A process where changes to one species significantly impact the entire ecosystem, often initiated by the removal of an apex predator.

Nutrient cycles

The continuous movement and exchange of nutrients between organisms and their environment essential for ecosystem productivity.

Dynamic equilibrium

The ability of an ecosystem to maintain stability while adjusting to gradual changes through natural selection.

Feedback loops

Processes in ecosystems where changes amplify further changes (positive feedback) or work to counteract changes (negative feedback).

Crown of thorns starfish (COTS)

A coral predator known for its role in reef destruction; its population increases can amplify coral declines.

Biodiversity

The variety and variability of life forms within a given ecosystem, crucial for ecological resilience.

Biocapacity

The capacity of natural ecosystems to produce and renew resources used by humans and absorb waste.

Ecological integrity

The ability of an ecosystem to maintain its structure, function, and processes unimpaired by human influence.

Shifting baseline syndrome

The phenomenon where each new generation views the current state of the environment as 'normal,' not recognizing its degradation.

Tipping points

Critical thresholds in ecosystems where small changes can lead to significant and often irreversible impacts.

Ecosystem services

The benefits provided by ecosystems, including provisioning, regulating, cultural, and supporting services that sustain human life.

Traditional ecological knowledge

Indigenous knowledge systems that emphasize sustainable practices and respect for the environment.