Ch. 4.2 / 5.1 Niches, Community Interactions & Populations

Front

What is a decomposer?

Back

An organism that breaks down dead organic matter into simpler parts, recycling nutrients back into the ecosystem.

Front

Why can't two species occupy the same niche and habitat at the same time?

Back

Because of the competition for resources.

Front

What is primary succession?

Back

The process of ecological change that occurs in an area where no soil exists, such as after a volcanic eruption.

Front

What is secondary succession?

Back

The process of ecological change that occurs in an area where soil is present but has been disturbed, such as after a forest fire.

Front

What is mutualism?

Back

A symbiotic relationship in which both species benefit from the interaction.

Front

What is biodiversity?

Back

The variety of different species in a given area.

Front

What is a niche?

Back

The role or function of an organism or species within an ecosystem, including its habitat, resource use, and interactions with other organisms.

Front

What is competition in ecology?

Back

The struggle between organisms for the same resources in an ecosystem, such as food, space, or light.

Front

What is commensalism?

Back

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

Front

What is parasitism?

Back

A symbiotic relationship where one organism benefits at the expense of another.