EOC REVIEW # 4: Ecology & Human Impacts

Front

What is dynamic equilibrium in an ecosystem?

Back

Dynamic equilibrium refers to a state of balance in an ecosystem where species populations and environmental factors remain relatively stable, despite ongoing changes and interactions.

Front

What role do catfish play in a pond ecosystem?

Back

Catfish help control the populations of other species, such as water boatman and waterfleas, contributing to the balance of the ecosystem.

Front

What is competition between species?

Back

Competition occurs when two or more species vie for the same resources, such as food, space, or mates, which can limit their growth and survival.

Front

What is a heterotroph?

Back

A heterotroph is an organism that cannot produce its own food and instead obtains nutrients by consuming other organisms.

Front

What happens to an ecosystem if all primary consumers are removed?

Back

The removal of all primary consumers can lead to a decrease in populations of secondary consumers, such as golden eagles and kit foxes, due to lack of food.

Front

What is the primary cause of increased atmospheric carbon dioxide since 1800?

Back

The primary cause is the use of fossil fuels by humans, which releases carbon dioxide into the atmosphere.

Front

What is photosynthesis?

Back

Photosynthesis is the process by which green plants and some other organisms use sunlight to synthesize foods with the help of chlorophyll.

Front

What is the role of algae in a pond ecosystem?

Back

Algae provide food for various organisms, including rotifers and catfish, and are essential for energy flow in the ecosystem.

Front

What is a food web?

Back

A food web is a complex network of feeding relationships among various organisms in an ecosystem, illustrating how energy and nutrients flow.

Front

What is the difference between a food chain and a food web?

Back

A food chain is a linear sequence of organisms where each is eaten by the next, while a food web is a more complex interconnection of multiple food chains.