Ecology and Biomes Overview

This set of flashcards covers important vocabulary terms and definitions related to ecology and various biomes as discussed in the lecture.

Coral Reefs

Diverse underwater ecosystems made up of coral polyps and other marine life that support various species of fish and invertebrates.

Abiotic Factors

Non-living chemical and physical components of the environment such as sunlight, temperature, water, and nutrients.

Biotic Factors

Living components of ecosystems, including plants, animals, and microorganisms that interact with one another.

Savannahs

Terrestrial biomes characterized by scattered trees and grasses, frequent fires, and a mix of wet and dry seasons.

Tundra

A cold, treeless biome found in the Arctic and Antarctic regions with permanently frozen soil (permafrost) and diverse wildlife.

Deserts

The driest of all biomes, receiving less than 25 cm of rain per year, typically characterized by sparse vegetation and extreme temperature variations.

Photosynthesis

The process by which green plants and some organisms use sunlight to synthesize foods with the help of chlorophyll.

Estuaries

Coastal bodies of water where freshwater from rivers meets and mixes with saltwater from the ocean, known for high biodiversity.

Intertidal Zone

The area between high and low tide, characterized by varying exposure to marine life, wave action, and salinity levels.

Biodiversity

The variety of life in the world or in a particular habitat or ecosystem, essential for ecological balance and resilience.

Climate Change

Long-term changes in temperature, precipitation, and other atmospheric conditions, influenced by human activity and natural processes.

Endangered Species Act

A U.S. law aimed at protecting species at risk of extinction and their habitats, fostering conservation efforts.

Nutrient Levels

The concentration of essential elements (like nitrogen and phosphorus) in an ecosystem, crucial for plant growth and overall ecosystem function.

Invasive Species

Non-native species that spread rapidly in a new environment, often causing harm to native species and ecosystems.

Pelagic Zone

The oceanic region that is away from the shore, where open water is found, populated by diverse marine species.

Aphotic Zone

The layer of the ocean that receives no sunlight, resulting in high pressure and low nutrient levels, but still hosts unique forms of life.