Ecosystems and Disturbance

These flashcards cover key vocabulary terms and concepts related to ecosystems, competition, succession, and the impacts of disturbances like fire and predation.

Predation

A biological interaction where one organism, the predator, kills and eats another organism, the prey.

Emergent Layer

The uppermost layer of a rainforest, where tall trees extend above the canopy, receiving the most sunlight.

Buttress Roots

Large, flared roots that extend from the base of some tropical trees for stability and support in shallow soil.

Epiphytes

Plants that grow on another plant (usually a tree) for physical support, not harming the host.

Parasitic Epiphytes

Epiphytes that derive some or all of their nutrients from the host plant, often harming it in the process.

Interference Competition

A type of competition where individuals interact with each other, either physically or chemically, to limit resource access.

Invasive Species

Species that are introduced to a new habitat and outcompete the native species, often leading to ecological harm.

Primary Ecological Succession

The process of community development from bare rock or soil, leading to complex ecosystems over time.

Secondary Ecological Succession

The recovery of ecosystems after a disturbance where soil and nutrients are already present.

Punctuated Equilibrium

A theory in ecology suggesting that ecosystems undergo long periods of stability interrupted by brief periods of significant change.

Ecological Disturbance

A discrete event that disrupts ecosystem structure and resources, affecting community dynamics and species composition.

Fire Regime

The characteristic pattern, frequency, and intensity of wildfires in an ecosystem, shaping community structure.

Shade Tolerance

The ability of some plant species to thrive in low light conditions, often leading to competition with sun-loving species.

Nutrient Cycling

The process by which nutrients are exchanged and recycled in ecosystems, especially after disturbances.

Climax Community

A stable and mature ecological community that has reached equilibrium, though subject to change from disturbances.

Longleaf Pine Forests

Ecosystems characterized by longleaf pine trees that are fire-resistant and adapted to frequent natural burns.

Ecological Resilience

The capacity of an ecosystem to absorb disturbances and still maintain its basic structure and functions.

Biomass

The total mass of living matter within a given area or ecosystem, often related to productivity.

Commensal Relationship

An interaction between species where one benefits and the other is neither helped nor harmed.

Chemical Competition

A method of competition where plants release chemicals into the environment to inhibit the growth of competitors.