Ecology Review

Front

What is an energy pyramid?

Back

An energy pyramid is a graphical representation that shows the flow of energy through different trophic levels in an ecosystem, with the greatest amount of energy at the base (producers) and decreasing amounts at higher levels (consumers).

Front

What happens to energy as it moves up trophic levels?

Back

As energy moves up trophic levels, a significant portion is lost as heat to the environment, resulting in less energy available for higher trophic levels.

Front

What is primary succession?

Back

Primary succession is the process of ecological change that occurs in an area where no soil exists, such as after a volcanic eruption or glacier retreat, leading to the establishment of a biological community.

Front

What role do decomposers play in an ecosystem?

Back

Decomposers break down dead organic matter, recycling nutrients back into the soil, which is essential for plant growth and maintaining ecosystem health.

Front

What is the significance of nitrogen in plant growth?

Back

Nitrogen is a crucial nutrient for plants, as it is a key component of amino acids, proteins, and nucleic acids, necessary for growth and development.

Front

What is mutualism?

Back

Mutualism is a type of symbiotic relationship where both species benefit from the interaction, such as bees pollinating flowers while obtaining nectar.

Front

What is predation?

Back

Predation is an ecological interaction where one organism (the predator) hunts and consumes another organism (the prey) for food.

Front

What is parasitism?

Back

Parasitism is a relationship where one organism (the parasite) benefits at the expense of another organism (the host), often harming it in the process.

Front

What is the role of herbivores in an ecosystem?

Back

Herbivores are primary consumers that feed on plants, playing a crucial role in energy transfer within the food web and influencing plant population dynamics.

Front

What is biomass?

Back

Biomass refers to the total mass of living matter within a given area or volume, often used to measure the energy available at different trophic levels.