Chapter 37: Ecology and the Biosphere

These flashcards cover key concepts from the chapter on ecology and the biosphere, focusing on ecological research, biogeography, climate influences, and various biomes.

What is the biosphere?

The biosphere is the global sum of all ecosystems, where life interacts with the hydrosphere, atmosphere, lithosphere, and ecosphere.

What are the levels of ecological research?

The levels are Organismal Ecology, Population, Community, Ecosystem, Landscape, and Global.

Define biogeography.

Biogeography is the study of the distribution of living things and the abiotic factors affecting their distribution.

What are some abiotic factors that influence ecosystems?

Abiotic factors include temperature, rainfall, latitude, elevation, seasonality, and bodies of water.

How does latitude affect climate variability?

Latitude affects the climate by determining the amount of solar energy received at a location.

What is the significance of measuring the angle of Polaris?

The angle of Polaris above the horizon indicates the latitude of a location in the Northern Hemisphere.

What invention was crucial for measuring longitude accurately?

An accurate clock was crucial for determining longitude by comparing local time to Greenwich Mean Time.

What causes seasonal variations in sunlight intensity?

Seasonal variations occur due to the tilt of the Earth's axis and its orbit around the Sun.

Describe the concept of a rain shadow.

A rain shadow occurs when mountains block moisture-laden air, creating wet conditions on one side and arid conditions on the other.

What are some characteristics of tropical forests?

Tropical forests have constant rainfall (200-400 cm annually), high temperatures (25-30°C year-round), and high biodiversity.

What defines desert biomes?

Desert biomes receive less than 30 cm of precipitation annually, have extreme temperature ranges, and contain sparse vegetation.

What are the primary characteristics of savanna biomes?

Savannas are grasslands with scattered trees, warm temperatures, a dry season lasting 8-9 months, and annual rainfall of 30-40 cm.

How do temperate grasslands vary in climate?

Temperate grasslands experience seasonal rainfall (30-100 cm), with cold winters and hot summers.

What distinguishes the northern coniferous forest biome?

The northern coniferous forest, or boreal forest, is characterized by cone-bearing trees, moderate rainfall, and a wide temperature range.

What are some characteristics of the tundra biome?

The tundra biome has low rainfall (20-60 cm/year), extreme temperature ranges (-30 to 10°C), and permafrost affecting plant growth.

What defines aquatic biomes?

Aquatic biomes are characterized by physical and chemical environments, including freshwater and marine biomes.

What is the primary difference between oligotrophic and eutrophic lakes?

Oligotrophic lakes are nutrient-poor and oxygen-rich, while eutrophic lakes are nutrient-rich and oxygen-poor.

What are estuaries and their significance?

Estuaries are transition areas between rivers and the sea that are highly productive and important for aquatic life.

What is unique about coral reefs?

Coral reefs are found in shallow, stable marine environments and support high biodiversity due to their clear water and nutrient levels.