Science Lesson 4.1: Resources in Ecosystems

Vocabulary terms and definitions covering ecological concepts and resources from Science Lesson 4.1.

Biosphere

The parts of Earth and the surrounding atmosphere where there is life.

Population

All the organisms of the same species that live in the same area at the same time.

Species

A group of organisms that have similar traits and are able to produce fertile offspring.

Community

All the populations of different species that live together in the same area at the same time.

Limiting factor

Anything that restricts the size of a population.

Biotic potential

The potential growth of a population if it could grow in perfect conditions with no limiting factors.

Carrying capacity

The largest number of individuals of one species that an ecosystem can support over time.

Overpopulation

When a population's size grows so large that it causes damage to the environment.