Ecology Review

Front

What is the relationship between a parasite and its host?

Back

In a parasitic relationship, one organism (the parasite) benefits at the expense of the other organism (the host), resulting in harm to the host.

Front

What role do decomposers play in an ecosystem?

Back

Decomposers are organisms that break down dead organic material, recycling nutrients back into the ecosystem and supporting the growth of new organisms.

Front

What are the main reactants required for cellular respiration?

Back

The main reactants of cellular respiration are glucose and oxygen.

Front

Define mutualism in ecological terms.

Back

Mutualism is a type of symbiotic relationship in which both organisms involved benefit from the interaction.

Front

What does a J curve represent in population dynamics?

Back

A J curve represents unlimited growth in a population, typically seen in ideal conditions without limiting factors.

Front

What is the difference between a food chain and a food web?

Back

A food chain is a linear sequence of organisms through which nutrients and energy pass, while a food web is a complex network of interconnected food chains.

Front

What is the significance of biodiversity in an ecosystem?

Back

Biodiversity contributes to ecosystem resilience, stability, and productivity, allowing ecosystems to better withstand environmental changes.

Front

Explain the concept of carrying capacity in ecology.

Back

Carrying capacity is the maximum number of individuals of a species that an environment can sustainably support without degrading the habitat.

Front

What is the role of producers in an ecosystem?

Back

Producers, such as plants and algae, convert sunlight into energy through photosynthesis, forming the base of the food chain.

Front

What is the difference between primary and secondary succession?

Back

Primary succession occurs in lifeless areas where soil has not yet formed, while secondary succession occurs in areas where a disturbance has destroyed an existing community but soil remains.