Ecosystems Unit Assessment

Front

What are biotic features in an ecosystem?

Back

Biotic features are the living components of an ecosystem, including plants, animals, fungi, and microorganisms.

Front

Name some biotic features found in Minnesota Prairie grasslands.

Back

Big bluestem, lead plant, sandpipers, pocket gophers.

Front

What are limiting factors in an ecosystem?

Back

Limiting factors are environmental conditions that restrict the growth, abundance, or distribution of organisms in an ecosystem.

Front

How can limiting factors be beneficial in an ecosystem?

Back

They can help control populations, preventing overpopulation and resource depletion.

Front

What role do decomposers play in an ecosystem?

Back

Decomposers break down dead organic matter, recycling nutrients back into the ecosystem.

Front

Identify some examples of decomposers.

Back

Fungi, bacteria, and wood-eating beetles.

Front

What is the primary role of producers in an ecosystem?

Back

Producers convert solar energy into chemical energy through photosynthesis.

Front

Give examples of producers in a Minnesota ecosystem.

Back

Plants like grasses, trees, and shrubs.

Front

What is carrying capacity in an ecosystem?

Back

Carrying capacity is the maximum number of individuals of a species that an environment can support indefinitely.

Front

What factors can affect the carrying capacity of an ecosystem?

Back

Availability of resources, habitat space, and environmental conditions.