8.L.3 Ecosystems

Front

What is an ecosystem?

Back

An ecosystem is a community of living organisms (plants, animals, and microorganisms) interacting with their physical environment (soil, water, air) in a specific area.

Front

What is the role of producers in an ecosystem?

Back

Producers, such as plants, convert sunlight into energy through photosynthesis, forming the base of the food chain.

Front

What are herbivores?

Back

Herbivores are animals that primarily eat plants.

Front

What happens to a herbivore population during a drought?

Back

The population of herbivores, like deer, will likely decrease due to a lack of food.

Front

What is predation?

Back

Predation is a biological interaction where one organism (the predator) hunts and eats another organism (the prey).

Front

What is the effect of removing a predator from an ecosystem?

Back

Removing a predator can lead to an increase in the prey population, as there are fewer natural checks on their numbers.

Front

Define coexistence in an ecosystem.

Back

Coexistence refers to different species living together in the same habitat without outcompeting each other.

Front

What is a food chain?

Back

A food chain is a linear sequence that shows how energy and nutrients flow from one organism to another in an ecosystem.

Front

What is the correct flow of energy in a food chain?

Back

Energy flows from producers to primary consumers to secondary consumers (e.g., grass → rabbit → fox).

Front

What is nitrogen-fixing bacteria?

Back

Nitrogen-fixing bacteria convert atmospheric nitrogen into forms that plants can use, playing a crucial role in the nitrogen cycle.