STAAR Biology Reporting Category 5

Front

What is the role of decomposers in an ecosystem?

Back

Decomposers break down organic compounds into products used by other organisms, recycling nutrients back into the ecosystem.

Front

Name two examples of producers in a food web.

Back

Phytoplankton and seaweed are examples of producers in a food web.

Front

What is commensalism?

Back

Commensalism is a type of symbiotic relationship where one organism benefits and the other is not affected.

Front

What is mutualism?

Back

Mutualism is a symbiotic relationship where both organisms benefit from the interaction.

Front

What characterizes a climax community?

Back

A climax community is stable for a long time, with the same species maintaining their population.

Front

What is the difference between producers and consumers?

Back

Producers create their own food through photosynthesis, while consumers obtain energy by eating other organisms.

Front

Define symbiosis.

Back

Symbiosis is a close and long-term interaction between two different species.

Front

What is the significance of phytoplankton in aquatic ecosystems?

Back

Phytoplankton are primary producers that form the base of the aquatic food web, providing energy for other organisms.

Front

Explain the concept of competition in ecology.

Back

Competition occurs when two or more organisms vie for the same resources, such as food, space, or light.

Front

What is the role of herbivores in an ecosystem?

Back

Herbivores are consumers that eat plants, playing a crucial role in transferring energy from producers to higher trophic levels.