Ecological/Symbiotic Relationships

Front

What may happen if a key species is removed from a food web?

Back

The populations of other species that depend on it may decrease, leading to an imbalance in the ecosystem.

Front

What is a keystone species?

Back

A species that has a disproportionately large effect on its environment relative to its abundance, helping to maintain the structure of an ecological community.

Front

What is parasitism?

Back

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

Front

What is mutualism?

Back

A type of symbiotic relationship where both organisms involved benefit.

Front

How does the removal of a predator affect its prey population?

Back

The prey population may increase due to reduced predation pressure.

Front

What is the role of producers in an ecosystem?

Back

Producers, such as plants, convert sunlight into energy through photosynthesis, forming the base of the food web.

Front

What is the impact of invasive species on native ecosystems?

Back

Invasive species can outcompete native species for resources, disrupt food webs, and lead to declines in native populations.

Front

What is the difference between commensalism and mutualism?

Back

In commensalism, one organism benefits while the other is neither helped nor harmed; in mutualism, both organisms benefit.

Front

What happens to an ecosystem if a primary consumer population decreases?

Back

The populations of primary producers may increase, while secondary consumers may decrease due to lack of food.

Front

What is ecological succession?

Back

The process by which ecosystems change and develop over time, often following a disturbance.