AP Biology - Unit 8 Review

Front

What is a keystone species?

Back

A species that exerts a large, positive impact on its ecosystem, playing a critical role in maintaining the structure of the ecological community.

Front

What is net primary productivity (NPP)?

Back

The rate at which all the plants in an ecosystem produce net useful chemical energy; calculated as NPP = Gross Primary Productivity (GPP) - Respiration.

Front

What is primary succession?

Back

The process of ecological change that occurs in an area where no soil exists, starting with bare rock.

Front

What is nitrogen fixation?

Back

The process by which nitrogen in the atmosphere is converted into ammonia or related nitrogenous compounds in soil, primarily by bacteria.

Front

What does carrying capacity refer to?

Back

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

Front

What is gross primary productivity (GPP)?

Back

The total amount of carbon dioxide that is captured by photosynthesis in a given area and time.

Front

What is denitrification?

Back

The process by which bacteria convert nitrates into nitrogen gas, returning nitrogen to the atmosphere.

Front

What is the difference between a keystone species and an invasive species?

Back

A keystone species has a crucial role in maintaining the ecosystem, while an invasive species disrupts the ecosystem and can cause harm.

Front

What is the role of small mammals in primary succession?

Back

Small mammals are typically not the first organisms to inhabit an area undergoing primary succession; pioneer species like lichens and mosses usually come first.

Front

What is ammonification?

Back

The process by which organic nitrogen is converted into ammonia by decomposers.