Unit 7 Organisms and their 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, and climate).

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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 of plants, animals, and microorganisms.

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How does biodiversity contribute to ecosystem sustainability?

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Biodiversity contributes to ecosystem sustainability by providing a wider range of resources, enhancing resilience to environmental changes, and supporting ecosystem services.

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What is a food web?

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A food web is a complex network of feeding relationships among organisms in an ecosystem, showing how energy and nutrients flow through different trophic levels.

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What is a top predator?

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A top predator is an animal that is at the top of the food chain and has no natural predators, playing a crucial role in maintaining the balance of an ecosystem.

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What is an adaptation?

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An adaptation is a characteristic or trait that enhances an organism's ability to survive and reproduce in its environment.

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What is the impact of human population growth on ecosystems?

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Human population growth can lead to habitat destruction, increased resource consumption, and a decline in biodiversity.

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What is the significance of primary producers in an ecosystem?

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

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What role do decomposers play in an ecosystem?

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

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What is the relationship between competition and biodiversity?

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Competition among species can influence biodiversity; higher biodiversity often leads to reduced competition for resources.