Community Ecology

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What is a limiting factor in ecology?

Back

A limiting factor is a resource or condition that limits the growth, abundance, or distribution of an organism or a population of organisms in an ecosystem.

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Can plants and animals compete for resources?

Back

Yes, plants and animals can compete for resources such as water, nutrients, and light.

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What does the competitive exclusion principle state?

Back

The competitive exclusion principle states that two species that compete for the same resources cannot coexist in the same area; one will outcompete the other.

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What is character displacement?

Back

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

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Is water a limiting factor for sharks?

Back

No, water is not a limiting factor for sharks as they are aquatic animals and require water to survive.

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What is a niche in ecology?

Back

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

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What is resource partitioning?

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Resource partitioning is the process by which competing species use the environment differently to coexist, reducing competition for resources.

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What is the difference between biotic and abiotic factors?

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Biotic factors are living components of an ecosystem (like plants and animals), while abiotic factors are non-living components (like water, sunlight, and temperature).

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How do invasive species affect community ecology?

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Invasive species can disrupt local ecosystems by outcompeting native species for resources, leading to declines in biodiversity.

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What is symbiosis?

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Symbiosis is a close and long-term interaction between two different species, which can be mutualistic, commensalistic, or parasitic.