Ecology review

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What is a trophic level?

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A trophic level is a position in a food chain or food web that indicates the organism's role in the flow of energy and nutrients. Organisms can occupy more than one trophic level.

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What is the difference between abiotic and biotic factors?

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Abiotic factors are non-living components of an ecosystem (e.g., water, sunlight, temperature), while biotic factors are living components (e.g., plants, animals, bacteria).

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What are producers in an ecosystem?

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Producers are organisms that can make their own food through photosynthesis or chemosynthesis, such as plants, algae, and some bacteria.

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What is a consumer in an ecosystem?

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Consumers are organisms that cannot produce their own food and must eat other organisms for energy. They are classified into primary, secondary, and tertiary consumers.

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What is a food web?

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A food web is a complex network of interconnected food chains in an ecosystem, showing how energy and nutrients flow between different organisms.

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What is a food chain?

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A food chain is a linear sequence that shows how energy and nutrients are transferred from one organism to another in an ecosystem.

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What is a decomposer?

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Decomposers are organisms, such as fungi and bacteria, that break down dead organic matter, returning nutrients to the soil and completing the nutrient cycle.

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What is the role of a tertiary consumer?

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Tertiary consumers are organisms that eat secondary consumers and are typically at the top of the food chain, playing a crucial role in maintaining the balance of ecosystems.

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Why do fish swim in schools?

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Fish swim in schools primarily for protection from predators, as it reduces the chances of any one fish being caught.

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What is an example of a biotic factor in an ecosystem?

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An example of a biotic factor is a tree, which provides habitat and food for various organisms.