Ecosystem Flashcard

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What are decomposers?

Back

Organisms, such as fungi and bacteria, that break down dead organisms and recycle nutrients back into the ecosystem.

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What role do decomposers play in an ecosystem?

Back

They help in the decomposition process, returning nutrients to the soil and supporting plant growth.

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What is decomposition?

Back

The process by which dead organic matter is broken down into simpler substances.

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What materials are restored to the soil through decomposition?

Back

Nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.

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What does the recycling symbol represent?

Back

Recycle - the process of converting waste into reusable material.

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What are food webs?

Back

Complex networks of feeding relationships among organisms in an ecosystem.

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What is the difference between herbivores and carnivores?

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Herbivores eat plants, while carnivores eat other animals.

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What are invasive species?

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Newly introduced species that can disrupt the balance of an ecosystem.

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What is a native species?

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A species that naturally occurs in a specific ecosystem.

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What is an endangered species?

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A species at risk of extinction due to habitat loss, pollution, or other factors.