The Lynx Eats the Hare Lab

Front

What is a predator-prey relationship?

Back

A predator-prey relationship is a biological interaction where one organism (the predator) hunts and eats another organism (the prey). In this relationship, the predator benefits (+) by obtaining food, while the prey is harmed (-) as it is killed.

Front

What happens to hare populations when lynxes are removed?

Back

The hare population can still change due to other factors affecting their survival, such as food availability, disease, and environmental conditions.

Front

What type of relationship is demonstrated in the Lynx Eats the Hare Lab?

Back

The relationship demonstrated is predation, where one species (lynx) preys on another (hare).

Front

What is a population boom?

Back

A population boom refers to a rapid increase in the number of individuals in a population, typically occurring when resources are abundant.

Front

What factors can affect hare population changes besides lynxes?

Back

Factors include food availability, habitat conditions, disease, and competition with other species.

Front

What is the significance of the boom and bust cycle in predator-prey dynamics?

Back

The boom and bust cycle illustrates how predator and prey populations can fluctuate in response to each other and environmental factors.

Front

What does it mean when we say a population is in a 'bust' phase?

Back

A 'bust' phase refers to a period when the population size decreases significantly, often due to resource scarcity or increased predation.

Front

How do limiting factors influence population dynamics?

Back

Limiting factors, such as food, space, and predation, can restrict population growth and lead to fluctuations in population size.

Front

What is mutualism?

Back

Mutualism is a type of symbiotic relationship where both species benefit from the interaction.

Front

What is competition in ecological terms?

Back

Competition occurs when two or more species or individuals vie for the same resources, such as food, space, or mates.