Ecology Key Concepts

Biomass Pyramid

Graphic representation of energy flow in an ecosystem.

Available Energy

Energy level with the most energy in an ecosystem.

Toxins in Level 4

Highest level in a food chain with the most toxins.

Food Chain Energy Transfer

Process where 10% energy is passed to the next level.

Carnivores in Food Web

Organisms like snake, cougar, and shrew.

Invasive Species Impact

Organisms affected by a new insect-eating species.

Heterotrophs vs. Producers

Nutrient absorption differences between organisms.

Nitrogen-fixing Bacteria

Convert N2 into usable nitrogen forms.

Decomposers' Role

Break down living things for ecosystem recycling.

Eutrophication Cause

High nutrient concentration leading to algae growth.

Fertilizing Importance

Compensating for harvested plant nutrients.

Carbon Cycle Components

CO2 to carbs to fossil fuels to CO2 again.

Fossil Fuels Examples

Coal, oil, natural gas uses and conversion to CO2.

Greenhouse Effect

Trapping heat with CO2, methane, and water vapor.

Symbiosis Types

Mutualism, parasitism, commensalism examples.

Biome Classification

Categorizing ecosystems like deciduous forests.

Habitat vs. Niche

Differentiating between grass-eating niche and tidal pool habitat.

Competition in Niches

Outcome when organisms share the same niche.

Succession Differences

Contrasting primary and secondary succession.

Pioneer Species

First perennial species in a new environment.

Ozone Layer Protection

Function of the ozone layer in blocking UV rays.

Ozone Layer Damage

Thinning due to human-produced chemicals like CFCs.