GBH2425S1 Unit 3 Test - Ecology

Front

What is clumped distribution in ecology?

Back

Clumped distribution refers to a pattern where individuals in a population are grouped together in specific areas rather than being evenly distributed across a habitat.

Front

Define altruism in ecological terms.

Back

Altruism is a behavior in which an organism acts in a way that benefits another organism at a cost to itself, often without any apparent benefit to the altruist.

Front

What is the intertidal zone?

Back

The intertidal zone is the area of the shoreline that is exposed to the air at low tide and submerged at high tide, experiencing regular fluctuations in water levels.

Front

Describe the characteristics of a temperate deciduous forest biome.

Back

Temperate deciduous forests are characterized by four distinct seasons, a variety of deciduous trees that lose their leaves in winter, and a rich diversity of plant and animal life.

Front

What is a limiting factor in an ecosystem?

Back

A limiting factor is a resource or condition that limits the growth, abundance, or distribution of an organism or a population of organisms in an ecosystem.

Front

How does nitrogen runoff affect aquatic ecosystems?

Back

Nitrogen runoff can lead to eutrophication, where excess nutrients cause algal blooms that deplete oxygen in the water and block sunlight, harming aquatic life.

Front

What is the significance of sunlight in aquatic ecosystems?

Back

Sunlight is crucial for photosynthesis, allowing aquatic plants to produce oxygen and food, which supports the entire food web in aquatic ecosystems.

Front

Explain the concept of ecological succession.

Back

Ecological succession is the process by which ecosystems change and develop over time, often following a disturbance, leading to a new community structure.

Front

What role do decomposers play in an ecosystem?

Back

Decomposers break down dead organic matter, recycling nutrients back into the soil, which supports plant growth and maintains ecosystem health.

Front

Define biodiversity and its importance in ecosystems.

Back

Biodiversity refers to the variety of life in a particular habitat or ecosystem. It is important for ecosystem resilience, stability, and the provision of ecosystem services.