Niche-Partitioning and Trophic Cascades Flashcard Review 2024

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What is niche partitioning?

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Niche partitioning is the differentiation of niches that enables similar species to coexist in a community by utilizing different resources or habitats.

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What is a trophic cascade?

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A trophic cascade is an ecological phenomenon where changes in the population of one species (usually a predator) cause a ripple effect through the food web, impacting multiple levels of the ecosystem.

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What happens to the ecosystem when a top predator is removed?

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When a top predator is removed, prey populations may increase, leading to overgrazing or overconsumption of vegetation, which can decrease biodiversity and alter the ecosystem.

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What is the role of sea robins in Long Island Sound's food web?

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Sea robins are predators that feed on silver sides, which in turn feed on algae, playing a crucial role in controlling the populations of these species.

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How does the reintroduction of wolves affect deer populations?

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The reintroduction of wolves typically leads to a decrease in deer populations, which can result in increased vegetation growth and a healthier ecosystem.

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What is an example of niche partitioning by time?

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Owls and hawks hunting the same prey at different times (owls at night and hawks during the day) is an example of niche partitioning by time.

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What is character displacement?

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Character displacement is the phenomenon where similar species evolve different traits to minimize competition when they coexist in the same environment.

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What is the significance of beavers in an ecosystem?

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Beavers are considered ecosystem engineers; their dam-building activities create wetlands that provide habitat for various species and improve water quality.

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What is the impact of increased wolf populations on songbird populations?

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Increased wolf populations can lead to decreased deer populations, which may allow for increased vegetation cover, benefiting songbird populations.

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What is the relationship between predators and prey in an ecosystem?

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Predators help regulate prey populations, preventing overpopulation and promoting biodiversity by maintaining a balance in the ecosystem.