AP Environmental Science Unit 2 Biodiversity

Front

What role do sea otters play in their ecosystem?

Back

Sea otters feed on sea urchins, which are harmful to kelp forests, helping to maintain the health of these ecosystems.

Front

What are pioneer species?

Back

Pioneer species are the first organisms to colonize previously uninhabited areas, such as moss and lichen in primary succession.

Front

What is ecosystem diversity?

Back

Ecosystem diversity refers to the variety of habitats, communities, and ecological processes within a given area.

Front

What type of adaptation is migration?

Back

Migration is a behavioral adaptation that allows animals, like finches, to move to different regions for survival.

Front

What is primary succession?

Back

Primary succession is the process of ecological change that occurs in lifeless areas, such as bare rock or ice, where no soil exists.

Front

What is secondary succession?

Back

Secondary succession is the process of ecological change that occurs in areas where a disturbance has destroyed an existing community but left the soil intact.

Front

Define biodiversity.

Back

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

Front

What is species diversity?

Back

Species diversity is the variety of different species within a given area, contributing to the overall biodiversity of that ecosystem.

Front

What is genetic diversity?

Back

Genetic diversity refers to the variation in genes within a particular species, which is important for adaptability and survival.

Front

How do keystone species affect ecosystems?

Back

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