Chapter 4

Front

What is an ecosystem?

Back

A community of living organisms interacting with their environment, including both living & non-living factors.

Front

What is a producer in an ecosystem?

Back

An organism, usually a plant, that creates energy through photosynthesis and serves as the base of the food chain.

Front

What is an invasive species?

Back

A non-native species that enters an ecosystem and causes harm to the native species or the ecosystem's balance.

Front

How do invasive species harm ecosystems?

Back

They can outcompete native species for resources, disrupt food chains, and alter habitats.

Front

What is the role of decomposers in an ecosystem?

Back

They break down dead organisms and recycle nutrients back into the environment.

Front

What is the primary source of energy in most ecosystems?

Back

Sunlight

Front

What is bioaccumulation?

Back

The build-up of harmful substances, such as toxins, in the tissues of organisms over time.

Front

What happens to top predators when bioaccumulation affects them?

Back

They may suffer from toxic effects due to the accumulation of harmful substances.

Front

What is the role of herbivores in an ecosystem?

Back

They are primary consumers that feed on plants, transferring energy up the food chain.

Front

EXTRA KNOWLEDGE:

Abiotic and biotic factors

Back

Biotic factors are living things within an ecosystem; such as plants, animals, and bacteria, while abiotic are non-living components; such as water, soil and atmosphere