APES chapter 6 Flashcard

Front

What is a keystone species?

Back

A keystone species is one that has a disproportionately large effect on its environment relative to its abundance. It can shape and maintain habitats for other species.

Front

What is NOT typical of a keystone species?

Back

Being at the top of the food chain is NOT typical of a keystone species.

Front

What is primary succession?

Back

Primary succession is the process of ecological change that occurs in an area where no soil exists, starting with bare rock or sand, and is initiated by pioneer species like algae, lichens, and mosses.

Front

What begins primary succession?

Back

Primary succession begins with colonization by algae, lichens, and mosses.

Front

What is carrying capacity?

Back

Carrying capacity is the maximum population size of a species that an environment can sustain indefinitely without being degraded.

Front

What does carrying capacity depend on?

Back

Carrying capacity depends on limiting resources such as food, water, and habitat.

Front

What is exponential growth in populations?

Back

Exponential growth is a model of population growth where the population increases at a constant rate, leading to a rapid increase in size.

Front

What does exponential growth represent?

Back

Exponential growth represents ideal conditions that rarely occur in natural populations.

Front

What are pioneer species?

Back

Pioneer species are the first organisms to colonize previously disrupted or damaged ecosystems, initiating the process of ecological succession.

Front

Which tree species are considered pioneer species in North American forests?

Back

Aspen is considered a pioneer species in North American forests.