Changes in Ecosystems

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What is an ecosystem?

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An ecosystem is a community of living organisms (plants, animals, and microorganisms) interacting with their physical environment (soil, water, air) in a specific area.

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What is a producer in an ecosystem?

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A producer is an organism that can make its own food through photosynthesis or chemosynthesis, such as plants and algae.

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What is a consumer in an ecosystem?

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A consumer is an organism that cannot produce its own food and instead obtains energy by eating other organisms.

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What is a predator?

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A predator is an animal that hunts and eats other animals (prey) for food.

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What is prey?

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Prey is an animal that is hunted and eaten by predators.

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What role do decomposers play in an ecosystem?

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Decomposers break down dead organic matter, returning nutrients to the soil and helping to recycle matter in the ecosystem.

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What is nitrogen fixation?

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Nitrogen fixation is the process by which certain bacteria convert atmospheric nitrogen into a form that plants can use.

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How do pesticides affect ecosystems?

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Pesticides can harm non-target species, including beneficial insects and aquatic life, potentially disrupting the balance of the ecosystem.

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What is an algae bloom?

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An algae bloom is a rapid increase in the population of algae in water bodies, often due to excess nutrients, which can deplete oxygen and harm aquatic life.

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What is biodiversity?

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