Ecology

Ecological Pyramid

Represents the flow of energy through trophic levels in an ecosystem.

10% Rule

At each energy transfer, approximately 90% of energy is lost as heat, leaving about 10% available to the next trophic level.

Producers (Autotrophs)

Organisms that convert sunlight into energy through photosynthesis and are the base of the ecological pyramid.

Primary Consumers (Herbivores)

Organisms that consume producers; examples include grasshoppers and rabbits.

Secondary Consumers (Carnivores)

Organisms that consume primary consumers; examples include snakes and frogs.

Tertiary Consumers (Top Carnivores)

Organisms that consume secondary consumers; examples include hawks and lions.

Biomass

Total mass of living organisms in a given area or volume, which usually decreases up the trophic levels.

Density-Dependent Factors

Factors affecting population growth based on the population's density, such as competition and predation.

Competition

Increased rivalry for resources as population density rises.

Predation

Increased mortality in dense populations as predators focus on abundant prey.

Disease

Spreads more easily in dense populations due to higher contact rates.

Density-Independent Factors

Factors affecting population growth regardless of density, such as natural disasters and extreme weather.

Natural Disasters

Events like floods and hurricanes that can reduce populations regardless of density.

Human Activities

Actions such as habitat destruction and pollution that impact populations irrespective of their density.