8.L.3 Ecosystems

Front

What is an ecosystem?

Back

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

Front

What is habitat loss?

Back

Habitat loss occurs when natural environments are destroyed or altered, leading to a decline in species populations and biodiversity.

Front

What is a decomposer?

Back

A decomposer is an organism, such as bacteria or fungi, that breaks down dead organic material, recycling nutrients back into the ecosystem.

Front

What is competition in an ecosystem?

Back

Competition occurs when two or more organisms vie for the same resources (food, space, etc.) in an ecosystem.

Front

What is a niche?

Back

A niche is the role or function of a species within its ecosystem, including its habitat, resource use, and interactions with other organisms.

Front

What happens to a food web if a key species is removed?

Back

Removing a key species can disrupt the food web, leading to population declines or increases in other species and overall ecosystem imbalance.

Front

What is a producer?

Back

A producer is an organism, typically a plant, that can make its own food through photosynthesis, forming the base of the food chain.

Front

What is a consumer?

Back

A consumer is an organism that cannot produce its own food and must eat other organisms (plants or animals) for energy.

Front

What is mutualism?

Back

Mutualism is a type of symbiotic relationship where both species benefit from the interaction.

Front

What is an example of a herbivore?

Back

An example of a herbivore is a deer, which primarily feeds on plants.