EESC topic 3 main ideas

Life

Defined by a set of seven conditions that distinguish living organisms from non-living entities. Life adapts and evolves through mutation and natural selection. Are viruses alive? Viruses are not cells; they depend on host cells for reproduction. Biologists recognize three life domains: Archaea, Bacteria, and Eukaryota. Archaea and bacteria are single-celled simple microorganisms. Eukaryota can be single-celled or multi-celled and include organisms grouped into Protista, Fungi, Animalia, and Plantae kingdoms

Evolution

Describes species change over time through natural selection. Mutations create new adaptations to the gene pool that may make members of a species better suited for survival. Spatial isolation can speed up the process of evolution by emphasizing specific adaptations necessary for survival

Species and populations

A species is a group of interbreeding organisms. Populations are individuals of a species in a specific area, containing genetic variation.

Communities and ecosystems

Communities consist of all species populations in an area, while ecosystems include biological communities and abiotic environments. Diverse communities are more resilient

Food webs and food chains

Food webs model energy flow in ecosystems. Keystone species are crucial for ecosystem dynamics. Grazing and detritus food chains describe energy flow differently

Ecosystem productivity

Primary productivity is the biomass produced by plants through photosynthesis. Net primary productivity is available for consumption by heterotrophs

Biogeochemical cycling

Nutrient cycling involves both living organisms and abiotic reactions. Key cycles include carbon and nitrogen, which are both significantly influenced by human activities

Abiotic factors

Geographic range and ecological niche affect species distribution. Abiotic factors like temperature and moisture can limit a species’ survival

Biotic interactions

Interactions include competition, mutualism, and commensalism, influencing population densities and ecosystem dynamics