Populations and Ecosystems

Front

What factors are most likely to increase the size of a population?

Back

Births and immigration are the primary factors that increase the size of a population.

Front

What are pioneer species?

Back

Pioneer species are the first organisms that appear in an ecological community, often after a disturbance.

Front

What is the order of plant growth after a volcanic eruption?

Back

Lichens → Grasses → Shrubs → Trees.

Front

What is a biotic factor in an ecosystem?

Back

A biotic factor is a living component of an ecosystem, such as the population of algae.

Front

How can abiotic factors impact populations in an ecosystem?

Back

Abiotic factors, like seasonal variations in temperature, can cause some individuals in a population to die.

Front

Define ecological succession.

Back

Ecological succession is the process by which ecosystems change and develop over time.

Front

What is primary succession?

Back

Primary succession occurs in lifeless areas where soil has not yet formed, such as after a volcanic eruption.

Front

What is secondary succession?

Back

Secondary succession occurs in areas where a disturbance has destroyed an existing community but left the soil intact.

Front

What role do predators play in an ecosystem?

Back

Predators help control herbivore populations, preventing overgrazing and depletion of plant resources.

Front

What is the difference between immigration and emigration?

Back

Immigration is the movement of individuals into a population, while emigration is the movement of individuals out of a population.