Ecology & Climate Change

These flashcards cover key concepts related to ecology and climate change based on the lecture notes, focusing on biodiversity, climate impacts, historical mass extinctions, and biological organization.

What does Elizabeth Mrema state about climate change and biodiversity?

Climate change is a primary driver of biodiversity loss and both are linked.

What is the significance of greenhouse gases in climate change?

Greenhouse gases, like CO₂ and CH₄, trap outgoing energy in the atmosphere, contributing to warming.

Who first hypothesized about the greenhouse effect?

Eunice Foote in 1856.

What was a major finding of Svante Arrhenius about CO₂?

He calculated how much CO₂ it would take to cause a meaningful shift in climate.

How does climate change relate to mass extinctions?

Climate change can drive extinction rates up, risking a sixth mass extinction due to human actions.

What defines a mass extinction event?

A mass extinction is defined by the loss of at least 75% of species within a short period of time.

What are some proposed causes of past mass extinction events?

Factors include glacial episodes, volcanic activity, and bolide impacts.

How does climate change impact biodiversity?

It alters species distributions, reproductive patterns, and can destabilize ecological communities.

What is Gross Primary Productivity (GPP)?

The total amount of chemical energy produced by photosynthetic life in an ecosystem for a given period.

How is climate change expected to affect GPP by 2070?

It is predicted to decrease global GPP by 8%.

What effect does increased temperature have on amphibians and reptiles?

By 2099, 55% of amphibians and 51% of reptiles are likely to experience extreme heat events.

What was one significant temperature impact in Canada mentioned in the notes?

A 2021 heatwave caused dramatic die-offs of marine invertebrates.

What challenges do organisms face due to climate change regarding homeostasis?

Changes in temperature can disrupt daily activity, reproduction, and growth.

How does climate affect populations of species like caribou and plants?

Caribou may face food shortages if plants they depend on emerge earlier due to climate change.

What role does sea urchin population growth have on marine ecosystems?

As ocean temperatures rise, sea urchins expand northward, damaging kelp forests.

How do changing climates affect ecological communities?

Changes in climate can lead to species moving to new areas, altering food webs and ecosystems.

What can happen to predator-prey dynamics with changing climates?

Species like deer may expand their range and compete with natives, affecting other populations.

What should students do to enhance their understanding of the subject?

Read Chapter 56 of the textbook to gain deeper context and knowledge for midterms and exams.