Global Change Ecology Review

These flashcards cover the key concepts related to biodiversity, human impact on ecosystems, and essential ecological cycles discussed in the Global Change Ecology lecture.

Biodiversity

The variety of life at all levels, including genetic, species, and ecosystem levels.

Genetic biodiversity

The variation in genes within species, contributing to overall biodiversity.

Species biodiversity

The variety of species within a given ecosystem or the entire planet.

Ecosystem biodiversity

The diversity of ecosystems in a particular area, including differences in habitat, species, and ecological processes.

Loss of biodiversity factors

Four main factors currently responsible for the loss of global biodiversity include habitat destruction, climate change, pollution, and invasive species.

Human impact on biomes

Human activities, such as urban development and agriculture, significantly affect both terrestrial and aquatic biomes.

Global water cycle

The continuous movement of water through the atmosphere, land, and bodies of water, including key reservoirs like oceans and glaciers.

Key processes of the water cycle

Processes include evaporation, condensation, precipitation, infiltration, and runoff.

Global carbon cycle

The movement of carbon among the atmosphere, land, and oceans, which is essential for maintaining Earth's climate.

Key processes of the carbon cycle

Processes include photosynthesis, respiration, decomposition, and combustion.

Carrying capacity

The maximum population size that an environment can sustain without significant negative impacts.

Photosynthesis equation

Carbon dioxide + Water + Light energy → Glucose + Oxygen.

Cellular respiration equation

Glucose + Oxygen → Carbon dioxide + Water + Energy.