Ecology Edulastic Test

Front

A primary consumer eats a ___________.

Back

producer

Front

An organism that breaks down the remains of another animal and returns those nutrients to the soil is called a ___________.

Back

decomposer

Front

What indicates that a population has exceeded the carrying capacity of an area?

Back

The land became overgrazed and barren.

Front

Why are there usually just a few organisms at the top of the energy pyramid?

Back

So much energy is lost from one level to the next that the energy available can only support a few.

Front

Grass is considered a ___________.

Back

producer

Front

What is the role of a decomposer in an ecosystem?

Back

To break down dead organisms and return nutrients to the soil.

Front

Define carrying capacity.

Back

The maximum number of individuals of a species that an environment can support.

Front

What is an energy pyramid?

Back

A graphical representation of the energy flow in an ecosystem, showing the energy available at each trophic level.

Front

What is a primary consumer?

Back

An organism that eats producers, typically herbivores.

Front

What happens to energy as it moves up the food chain?

Back

Energy decreases as it moves from one trophic level to the next.