Species Interactions in Agroecology

These flashcards cover key terminology and concepts related to species interactions in agroecology, as introduced in the student's lecture.

Species Interactions

Reciprocal relationships between different species that affect their growth and survival.

Interference

When organisms change the environment, impacting each other’s growth and survival.

Parasitism

Interaction in which one organism benefits at the expense of another, the host.

Herbivory

Consumption of plants by animals, which may reduce plant yield.

Intra-specific Competition

Competition among individuals of the same species for limited resources.

Inter-specific Competition

Competition between individuals of different species for limited resources.

Land Equivalent Ratio (LER)

A measure of yield advantage in polyculture, where LER > 1 indicates a yield benefit.

Allelopathy

Chemical release by a plant that inhibits or stimulates other organisms.

Mutualism

A type of species interaction where both species benefit from the relationship.

Commensalism

A relationship where one species benefits while the other is not significantly affected.

Symbiosis

Close association between two dissimilar organisms, which can be mutualistic, parasitic, or commensal.

Rhizobia

Bacteria that form symbiotic relationships with legumes, fixing nitrogen in exchange for carbohydrates.

Predation

An interaction where one organism (the predator) consumes another (the prey).

Herbivore Defenses

Mechanisms plants use to deter herbivory, such as spines or chemical defenses.

Mycorrhizal Fungi

Fungi that form beneficial relationships with plant roots, aiding nutrient absorption.

Epiphytes

Plants that grow on other plants for physical support and light without harming the host.

Cattle Egrets

Birds that feed on insects stirred up by grazing cattle, benefiting both species.

Pollination

The transfer of pollen from male to female parts of plants, often aided by animals.

Species Interaction Types

The different ways species can interact, including competition, predation, symbiosis, and herbivory.

Sustainable Yield

The long-term capacity of an ecosystem to produce crops at a consistent rate.

Crop Ecology

The study of how crops interact with their environment and each other within agroecosystems.