Ecological Relationships and Dynamics Flashcard

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What are invasive species?

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Invasive species are non-native organisms that, when introduced to a new habitat, can outcompete local species for resources, disrupt ecosystems, and cause ecological harm.

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What is the first law of thermodynamics?

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The first law of thermodynamics states that energy cannot be created or destroyed, only transformed from one form to another. In ecosystems, this explains how energy from the sun is converted into chemical energy by producers.

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How does energy flow through an ecosystem?

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Energy flows through an ecosystem from producers (like plants) to primary consumers (herbivores), then to secondary consumers (carnivores), and so on, forming a food chain.

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What is a primary consumer?

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A primary consumer is an organism that eats producers (plants) to obtain energy. Examples include herbivores like grasshoppers and rabbits.

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What is mutualism?

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Mutualism is a type of symbiotic relationship where both species benefit. An example is a bird eating ticks off a buffalo, providing the bird with food and the buffalo with pest control.

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What is the role of decomposers in an ecosystem?

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Decomposers break down dead organic matter, recycling nutrients back into the soil, which supports plant growth and maintains ecosystem health.

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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 flow from one organism to another in an ecosystem, starting from producers to various levels of consumers.

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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 simple, linear representation of energy flow, while a food web is a complex network of interconnected food chains showing how different organisms are related.

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What is an example of a secondary consumer?

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A secondary consumer is an organism that eats primary consumers. An example is a frog that eats grasshoppers.

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What is the significance of biodiversity in ecosystems?

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Biodiversity enhances ecosystem resilience, productivity, and stability, allowing ecosystems to better withstand environmental changes and disturbances.