STAAR Biology Reporting Category 5

Front

What is dynamic equilibrium in an ecosystem?

Back

Dynamic equilibrium refers to a state of balance in an ecosystem where species populations and environmental conditions remain stable over time, despite fluctuations.

Front

How do catfish contribute to the balance of a pond ecosystem?

Back

Catfish help control the populations of water boatman and waterfleas, which maintains the balance of species in the pond.

Front

What is the effect of an increase in the cricket population on the grass/flowers population?

Back

A sudden increase in the cricket population would likely lead to a decrease in the grass/flowers population due to increased herbivory.

Front

What do the arrows in a food chain diagram represent?

Back

The arrows indicate the direction of energy flow through a series of organisms.

Front

What are the two negative impacts of deforestation by burning?

Back

Deforestation by burning releases CO2 into the atmosphere while decreasing oxygen levels, disrupting ecological cycles.

Front

What is the impact of invasive species like Caulerpa on biodiversity?

Back

Invasive species like Caulerpa can dominate ecosystems and reduce biodiversity by outcompeting native species.

Front

Define the term 'biodiversity'.

Back

Biodiversity refers to the variety of life in a particular habitat or ecosystem, including the number of different species.

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

Explain the concept of energy flow in an ecosystem.

Back

Energy flow in an ecosystem describes how energy is transferred from one trophic level to another, starting from producers to consumers.

Front

What is the significance of decomposers in an ecosystem?

Back

Decomposers break down dead organic matter, recycling nutrients back into the soil and supporting plant growth.