Ecology Lecture Sept. 4th

These flashcards cover essential vocabulary related to the study of ecology, including definitions and important concepts introduced in the lecture.

Ecology

The scientific study of interactions between organisms and their environment.

Population

A group of individuals of a species that are living and interacting in a particular area.

Community

An association of populations of different species in the same area.

Ecosystem

A community of organisms plus the physical environment.

Biosphere

All living organisms on Earth plus the environments in which they live.

Nutrient cycle

Nutrients are continuously recycled from the physical environment to organisms and back again.

Energy Flow

Moves through ecosystems in a single direction, cannot be recycled

Biotic components

Living components of an ecosystem.

Abiotic components

Physical components of an ecosystem.

Scientific method

A series of steps used by scientists to make observations, ask questions, develop hypotheses, and draw conclusions.

Deformities in amphibians

Indications of environmental issues, as amphibians are sensitive to pollutants due to their permeable skin.

Ribeiroia ondatrae

A trematode flatworm that can cause deformities in frogs.

Ecological hierarchy

The organization of life from organisms to biosphere.