Ecology Unit 4 Bonus Flashcard

Front

What is the competitive exclusion principle?

Back

The principle stating that two species competing for the same resources cannot coexist; one will outcompete the other.

Front

Define realized niche.

Back

The portion of the fundamental niche that a species actually occupies in the presence of other species.

Front

What is a fundamental niche?

Back

The full range of environmental conditions and resources a species can theoretically use.

Front

Explain why two species cannot occupy the same niche.

Back

Because one species will eventually outcompete the other for resources.

Front

What is an example of a mutualistic relationship in ecology?

Back

The relationship between bees and flowering plants, where bees get nectar and plants get pollinated.

Front

Define commensalism.

Back

A type of symbiotic relationship where one species benefits and the other is neither helped nor harmed.

Front

What is the role of decomposers in an ecosystem?

Back

Decomposers break down dead organic matter, recycling nutrients back into the ecosystem.

Front

What is an example of a keystone species?

Back

Sea otters are a keystone species because they help maintain the balance of kelp forest ecosystems.

Front

Define biodiversity.

Back

The variety of life in a particular habitat or ecosystem, including the number of different species.

Front

What is ecological succession?

Back

The process by which ecosystems change and develop over time, often following a disturbance.