Aquatic Ecology - Test

Front

What does an energy pyramid show?

Back

An energy pyramid shows the distribution of energy, biomass, and total numbers in an ecosystem.

Front

What do the arrows in a food chain represent?

Back

The arrows in a food chain represent the flow of energy from one organism to another, indicating energy released from metabolism into the environment as heat.

Front

Why are microplastics dangerous to marine life?

Back

Microplastics are dangerous because sea life mistake them for food, leading to ingestion and potential harm.

Front

What are some solutions to reduce the Great Pacific Garbage Patch?

Back

Possible solutions include banning all plastic products worldwide, implementing stricter regulations on waste disposal, and developing biodegradable plastics.

Front

What is the term for the role you play in your ecosystem?

Back

The term is 'niche', which refers to the specific role or function of an organism within its ecosystem.

Front

Define 'biomass' in the context of an ecosystem.

Back

Biomass refers to the total mass of living matter within a given area or volume, often used to measure the amount of energy available in an ecosystem.

Front

What is a food web?

Back

A food web is a complex network of interconnected food chains in an ecosystem, showing how energy and nutrients flow between different organisms.

Front

Explain the concept of 'trophic levels'.

Back

Trophic levels are the hierarchical levels in an ecosystem, defined by how organisms obtain energy, including producers, primary consumers, secondary consumers, and decomposers.

Front

What is the significance of producers in an ecosystem?

Back

Producers, such as plants and algae, are crucial because they convert solar energy into chemical energy through photosynthesis, forming the base of the food chain.

Front

What role do decomposers play in an ecosystem?

Back

Decomposers break down dead organic matter, recycling nutrients back into the soil and making them available for producers.