Ecology and Algae Production

Flashcards covering key vocabulary and concepts related to ecology and algae production based on the provided transcript.

Algae

Simple non-flowering plants of a large group that includes the seaweeds and many single-celled forms.

Phosphorus availability

The presence and quantity of phosphorus in an environment, which can influence biological productivity.

Comparative approach

An ecological research method that compares different ecosystems or situations to understand relationships.

Manipulative experimental approach

A research strategy where specific variables are manipulated to test hypotheses and observe effects.

Food chain structure

The organization of producers, consumers, and decomposers in an ecosystem that affects the flow of energy and nutrients.

Ecological models

Simplifications of ecological systems that represent certain aspects to aid understanding or predictions.

Mesocosms

Controlled outdoor experiments that simulate natural environments to study ecological processes.

Zooplanktivores

Organisms, typically fish, that feed on zooplankton, influencing the population dynamics of algae.

Nutrient recycling

The process by which nutrients are reused in an ecosystem, for instance, through decomposition or excretion.

Ecosystem manipulation

The intentional alteration of an ecosystem to study ecological principles and interactions.