Ecology Flashcard 3 Review Fall 24

Front

What is carrying capacity in an ecosystem?

Back

The maximum population size of a species that an environment can sustain indefinitely without being degraded.

Front

What gas is released during respiration?

Back

Carbon dioxide.

Front

How does acid rain affect forest ecosystems?

Back

It reduces the number of trees, which can lead to a decline in species that depend on those trees for habitat and resources.

Front

What happens to predator-prey relationships if a key species is removed from a food web?

Back

The population of the prey may increase, while the predator population may decrease due to lack of food.

Front

What is biodiversity?

Back

The variety of life in a particular habitat or ecosystem, which contributes to its stability.

Front

What is a keystone species?

Back

A species that has a disproportionately large effect on its environment relative to its abundance.

Front

How does population aging affect growth rates?

Back

As individuals age, they may reproduce less, leading to a decrease in population growth.

Front

What is the impact of introducing a new predator to an ecosystem?

Back

It can lead to a decline in the population of prey species, potentially disrupting the food web.

Front

What is the relationship between biodiversity and ecosystem stability?

Back

Higher biodiversity generally leads to greater ecosystem stability, as it allows for more resilience to changes.

Front

What is the role of trees in a forest ecosystem?

Back

Trees provide habitat, food, and resources for various species, contributing to the overall health of the ecosystem.