APES - Ecosystems Ecology

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What is a trophic pyramid?

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A trophic pyramid is a graphical representation of the distribution of energy and biomass among different trophic levels in an ecosystem, typically showing producers at the base and top predators at the apex.

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Why do terrestrial trophic pyramids usually not have levels higher than tertiary consumers?

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A large proportion of energy is lost as heat as it is transferred up the pyramid, so there is not enough energy available to support another level.

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What role do decomposers play in an ecosystem?

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Decomposers break down dead organic matter, recycling nutrients back into the soil, which is essential for the growth of producers.

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What is the hydrologic cycle?

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The hydrologic cycle, or water cycle, is the continuous movement of water within the Earth and atmosphere, involving processes such as evaporation, condensation, precipitation, and infiltration.

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How do impervious surfaces affect the hydrologic cycle?

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Impervious surfaces, like concrete and asphalt, prevent water infiltration into the ground, leading to increased runoff and reduced groundwater recharge.

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What is phosphorus cycling in ecosystems?

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Phosphorus cycling refers to the movement of phosphorus through the lithosphere, hydrosphere, and biosphere, primarily through processes like weathering, uptake by plants, and decomposition.

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What is the significance of organic phosphorus in soil?

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Organic phosphorus is readily available for plant uptake, playing a crucial role in plant growth and the overall health of the ecosystem.

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What is the nitrogen cycle?

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The nitrogen cycle is the process by which nitrogen is converted between its various chemical forms, including fixation, nitrification, denitrification, and ammonification.

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What does the conservation of matter mean in biogeochemical cycles?

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The conservation of matter means that matter cannot be created or destroyed in a closed system; it is recycled through various processes in biogeochemical cycles.

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What is the primary reserve of nitrogen in the atmosphere?

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The primary reserve of nitrogen is in the atmosphere, where it exists mainly as nitrogen gas (N2), making up about 78% of the Earth's atmosphere.