Ecology and Environmental Science Flashcard

Front

What is the primary role of decomposers in an ecosystem?

Back

Decomposers break down dead organic matter, recycling nutrients back into the ecosystem.

Front

What characterizes the tundra biome?

Back

The tundra biome is characterized by permafrost and low precipitation.

Front

Which factor is NOT considered a limiting factor in an ecosystem?

Back

Genetic diversity is not considered a limiting factor in an ecosystem.

Front

What does biodiversity refer to?

Back

Biodiversity refers to the variety of species in an area, including genetic variation and the number of different ecosystems.

Front

How is productivity in an ecosystem measured?

Back

Productivity is measured by the rate of energy storage in biomass.

Front

What is an ecosystem?

Back

An ecosystem is a community of living organisms interacting with their physical environment.

Front

What is the difference between biotic and abiotic factors?

Back

Biotic factors are living components of an ecosystem, while abiotic factors are non-living components.

Front

What is a food chain?

Back

A food chain is a linear sequence of organisms through which nutrients and energy pass as one organism eats another.

Front

What is the significance of keystone species?

Back

Keystone species have a disproportionately large impact on their environment relative to their abundance.

Front

What is an ecological niche?

Back

An ecological niche is the role and position a species has in its environment, including all interactions with biotic and abiotic factors.