Ecology Flashcard 1

Front

What role do fungi play in an ecosystem?

Back

Fungi break down dead plants and release nutrients back into the soil, which helps plants grow.

Front

Why is the loss of predators considered a negative effect on ecosystems?

Back

Predators play an important role in maintaining stable ecosystems by controlling the populations of prey species.

Front

What environmental factor can lead to an increase in a rabbit population?

Back

Increased availability of food can lead to a growth in the rabbit population.

Front

What happens when two species compete for the same resources?

Back

The population of one species may decrease due to competition for resources.

Front

What caused the decline of the dodo bird population after humans arrived on Mauritius?

Back

Human exploitation and the introduction of new species significantly reduced dodo bird populations.

Front

Define 'ecosystem'.

Back

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

Front

What is the significance of decomposers in an ecosystem?

Back

Decomposers break down dead organic matter, returning nutrients to the soil and supporting plant growth.

Front

Explain the concept of a food chain.

Back

A food chain shows how energy and nutrients flow from one organism to another in an ecosystem.

Front

What is competition in ecology?

Back

Competition occurs when two or more species or individuals vie for the same resources, such as food, water, or space.

Front

What is a niche?

Back

A niche is the role or function of an organism within its ecosystem, including its habitat and interactions with other organisms.