Biology EOC RC 5

Front

What are phytoplankton blooms and how do they affect aquatic ecosystems?

Back

Phytoplankton blooms are rapid increases in the population of phytoplankton in water bodies, often caused by nutrient pollution (like sewage and fertilizers). They can lead to dead zones, areas with low oxygen levels where aquatic life cannot survive.

Front

What is a dead zone in an aquatic ecosystem?

Back

A dead zone is an area in a body of water where oxygen levels are so low that marine life cannot survive, often caused by nutrient pollution leading to phytoplankton blooms.

Front

What is the impact of rain runoff on aquatic ecosystems?

Back

Rain runoff can carry pollutants like fertilizers and sewage into water bodies, increasing nutrient levels and potentially leading to phytoplankton blooms and dead zones.

Front

What is the ecological impact of introducing non-native species into local waterways?

Back

Introducing non-native species can disrupt local ecosystems by outcompeting native species for resources, altering habitats, and introducing diseases.

Front

What are decomposers and why are they important in a food web?

Back

Decomposers are organisms that break down dead organic material, recycling nutrients back into the ecosystem, which is essential for the health of the food web.

Front

What is the energy transfer efficiency in an energy pyramid?

Back

Energy transfer efficiency in an energy pyramid is typically about 10%, meaning only about 10% of the energy from one trophic level is available to the next.

Front

How much energy is provided to secondary consumers if primary consumers receive 54,000 joules?

Back

If primary consumers receive 54,000 joules, secondary consumers would receive approximately 5,400 joules, based on the 10% energy transfer rule.

Front

What is mutualism? Provide an example.

Back

Mutualism is a symbiotic relationship where both species benefit. An example is the relationship between acacia ants and bullshorn acacia plants, where ants protect the plant and receive food and shelter in return.

Front

What is commensalism? Provide an example.

Back

Commensalism is a symbiotic relationship where one species benefits and the other is neither helped nor harmed. An example is barnacles attaching to a whale.

Front

What is parasitism? Provide an example.

Back

Parasitism is a relationship where one organism benefits at the expense of another. An example is a tapeworm living in the intestines of a host.