Environmental Science Final Review Flashcard

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What is primary ecological succession?

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Primary ecological succession is the process of community development that occurs in an area where no soil exists, such as after a volcanic eruption or glacier retreat. It starts with pioneer species like lichens and mosses.

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What is secondary ecological succession?

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Secondary ecological succession is the process of community development that occurs in an area where soil is present but has been disturbed, such as after a forest fire or human activities. It typically occurs faster than primary succession.

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What is the primary source of energy in an ecosystem?

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The primary source of energy in an ecosystem is solar energy, which is harnessed by plants through photosynthesis.

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Define carnivore.

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A carnivore is an animal that primarily feeds on other animals.

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What is an herbivore?

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An herbivore is an animal that primarily feeds on plants.

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What is an omnivore?

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An omnivore is an animal that feeds on both plants and animals.

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What role do decomposers play in an ecosystem?

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Decomposers break down dead organic matter, returning nutrients to the soil and making them available for plants.

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What is biodiversity?

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Biodiversity refers to the variety of life in a particular habitat or ecosystem, including the number of different species and genetic diversity.

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What is an ecosystem?

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An ecosystem is a community of living organisms interacting with their physical environment, including both biotic and abiotic factors.

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What is the difference between a food chain and a food web?

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A food chain is a linear sequence of organisms through which nutrients and energy pass, while a food web is a complex network of interconnected food chains.