Living Environment Ecology Review

Front

What is a density-dependent factor in population ecology?

Back

A density-dependent factor is a variable that affects a population more significantly as its density increases, such as competition, predation, and disease.

Front

What is an example of a density-independent factor?

Back

An example of a density-independent factor is the average rainfall of a region, as it affects populations regardless of their density.

Front

What percentage of energy is lost as heat when moving up a food pyramid?

Back

90% of the energy is lost as heat to the environment when moving up a food pyramid.

Front

What is a primary consumer?

Back

A primary consumer is an organism that eats producers (plants), typically herbivores.

Front

How does competition for food affect population growth?

Back

Competition for food can limit the growth of a population, especially in large and dense populations.

Front

What is the role of decomposers in an ecosystem?

Back

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

Front

Define a food chain.

Back

A food chain is a linear sequence of organisms through which nutrients and energy pass as one organism eats another.

Front

What is the difference between a food chain and a food web?

Back

A food chain is a single pathway of energy flow, while a food web consists of multiple interconnected food chains.

Front

What is an example of a density-dependent limiting factor?

Back

An example of a density-dependent limiting factor is predation, as it becomes more impactful in denser populations.

Front

What is the significance of energy loss in ecosystems?

Back

Energy loss in ecosystems limits the number of trophic levels and affects population dynamics.