NC Biology EOC Review: Ecosystems

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What is an ecosystem?

Back

An ecosystem is a community of living organisms (plants, animals, and microbes) interacting with their physical environment (soil, water, and climate) in a specific area.

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What is a trophic level?

Back

A trophic level is a position in a food chain or food web, representing the flow of energy and nutrients from one level to the next, typically categorized as producers, primary consumers, secondary consumers, and tertiary consumers.

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Define carrying capacity.

Back

Carrying capacity is the maximum number of individuals of a particular species that an environment can sustainably support without degrading the habitat.

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What is the difference between biotic and abiotic factors?

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Biotic factors are the living components of an ecosystem (e.g., plants, animals, bacteria), while abiotic factors are the non-living physical and chemical elements (e.g., sunlight, temperature, water).

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Explain the concept of food chains and food webs.

Back

A food chain is a linear sequence of organisms through which nutrients and energy pass as one organism eats another. A food web is a complex network of interconnected food chains in an ecosystem.

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What is the role of producers in an ecosystem?

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Producers, such as plants and algae, convert sunlight into energy through photosynthesis, forming the base of the food chain and providing energy for all other organisms.

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Define mutualism and provide an example.

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Mutualism is a symbiotic relationship where both species benefit. Example: Bees pollinating flowers while obtaining nectar.

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What is the significance of keystone species?

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Keystone species are organisms that have a disproportionately large impact on their ecosystem relative to their abundance, helping to maintain the structure and diversity of the community.

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Describe the impact of deforestation on ecosystems.

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Deforestation leads to habitat loss, decreased biodiversity, disruption of water cycles, and increased carbon emissions, contributing to climate change.

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What is ecological succession?

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Ecological succession is the process by which ecosystems change and develop over time, often following a disturbance, leading to a more stable community.