Ecology Review

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What are abiotic factors?

Back

Abiotic factors are the non-living components of an ecosystem that affect living organisms. Examples include water, sunlight, air, and soil.

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What does the Competitive Exclusion Principle state?

Back

The Competitive Exclusion Principle states that two species competing for the same resources cannot coexist; one will outcompete the other, leading to its extinction or migration.

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.

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What is secondary succession?

Back

Secondary succession is the process of ecological change that occurs in an area where a disturbance has destroyed an existing community but left the soil intact.

Front

What is a keystone species?

Back

A keystone species is a species that has a disproportionately large effect on its environment relative to its abundance, playing a critical role in maintaining the structure of an ecological community.

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What are pioneer species?

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Pioneer species are the first organisms to colonize previously disrupted or damaged ecosystems, initiating the process of ecological succession.

Front

What are biotic factors?

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Biotic factors are the living components of an ecosystem that affect other living organisms, such as plants, animals, and microorganisms.

Front

What is ecological succession?

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Ecological succession is the process by which ecosystems change and develop over time, involving a series of species replacements.

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What is the difference between primary and secondary succession?

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Primary succession occurs in lifeless areas without soil, while secondary succession occurs in areas where a disturbance has destroyed an existing community but left the soil intact.

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What is a trophic level?

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A trophic level is a position in a food chain or food web, representing the flow of energy and nutrients from producers to various levels of consumers.