Unit 2 The Living World: Biodiversity

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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 diversity of species, genetic variation, and ecosystem diversity.

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What is a generalist species?

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A generalist species is one that can adapt to a wide range of habitats and has a broad diet, allowing it to thrive in various environments.

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What is a specialist species?

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A specialist species has a narrow range of tolerance and specific habitat and food needs, making it more vulnerable to extinction.

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What is ecological succession?

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Ecological succession is the process by which ecosystems change and develop over time, involving a series of stages from pioneer species to a climax community.

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What are pioneer species?

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Pioneer species are the first organisms to colonize previously disrupted or damaged ecosystems, playing a crucial role in soil formation and nutrient addition.

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What is a climax community?

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A climax community is a stable and mature ecological community that undergoes little change in species composition over time.

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What is primary succession?

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Primary succession occurs in lifeless areas where soil has not yet formed, such as after a volcanic eruption or glacier retreat.

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What is secondary succession?

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Secondary succession occurs in areas where a disturbance has destroyed an existing community but left the soil intact, such as after a forest fire.

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What is the role of keystone species?

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Keystone species are species that have a disproportionately large effect on their environment relative to their abundance, helping to maintain the structure of an ecosystem.

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What is an invasive species?

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An invasive species is a non-native species that spreads rapidly in a new environment, often outcompeting native species and disrupting ecosystems.