env sci Unit 4 Community Ecology

Front

What is primary succession?

Back

Primary succession is the process of ecological change that occurs in an area where no soil exists, such as after a volcanic eruption or glacier retreat.

Front

What are pioneer species?

Back

Pioneer species are the first organisms to colonize a barren environment in primary succession, such as lichens and algae.

Front

What is the difference between a primary consumer and a secondary consumer?

Back

Primary consumers are herbivores that eat producers (plants), while secondary consumers are carnivores that eat primary consumers.

Front

What does it mean for a species to be extinct?

Back

A species is considered extinct when there are no living members left.

Front

What is geographic isolation?

Back

Geographic isolation occurs when a physical barrier, such as a mountain or river, separates populations, potentially leading to speciation.

Front

What is an example of a pioneer species?

Back

Lichens and mosses are common examples of pioneer species that can grow on bare rock.

Front

What is the role of lichens in primary succession?

Back

Lichens help break down rock into soil, making it possible for other plants to grow.

Front

What is a herbivore?

Back

A herbivore is an organism that primarily eats plants.

Front

What is an epidemic?

Back

An epidemic is a sudden increase in the number of cases of a disease above what is normally expected in a population.

Front

What is the significance of a population in ecology?

Back

A population is a group of individuals of the same species living in a specific area, and it is important for studying species interactions and dynamics.