U11 Q1

Front

What are pioneer species?

Back

Pioneer species are the first organisms to colonize barren environments, initiating an ecological succession. Common examples include mosses and lichens.

Front

What is primary succession?

Back

Primary succession is the process of ecological change that occurs in an area where no soil exists, starting from bare rock or sand.

Front

What role do mosses and lichens play in primary succession?

Back

Mosses and lichens help to break down rock into soil, making it possible for other plants to grow.

Front

What is a carnivore?

Back

A carnivore is an organism that primarily eats other animals. An example is a buzzard.

Front

What is a consumer in an ecosystem?

Back

A consumer is an organism that obtains energy by feeding on other organisms, including plants and animals.

Front

What is a decomposer?

Back

Decomposers are organisms that break down dead organic material, returning nutrients to the soil. Fungi are a common example.

Front

What type of leaves are best suited for plants on the forest floor?

Back

Leaves with the greatest amount of surface area are best suited for plants on the forest floor to capture sunlight.

Front

What is the energy transfer in a food chain?

Back

Energy is transferred from producers to consumers and then to higher-level consumers, with each step losing some energy as heat.

Front

What is the role of fungi in an ecosystem?

Back

Fungi act as decomposers, breaking down dead matter and recycling nutrients back into the ecosystem.

Front

What is the difference between a herbivore and a carnivore?

Back

Herbivores eat plants, while carnivores eat other animals.