Flashcards: Ecosystems

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Ecological succession...

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A series of changes where new species gradually colonize an area, leading to a stable ecosystem.

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Primary succession...

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Primary succession occurs on surfaces where no soil or organisms exist.

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Pioneer species...

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Pioneer species, such as mosses and lichens, help build soil by breaking down rock and adding organic material.

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Stable ecosystem involves several stages...

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After pioneer species, more complex plants and animals move in, eventually leading to a diverse and stable community.

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Secondary succession...

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Restarts from existing soil and seeds, roots, or young left by organisms that died. It increases species variety over time.

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Secondary succession can occur due to natural events or human activities.

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Natural events include wildfires, floods, tsunamis, hurricanes, and tornadoes. Human activities include wildfires, abandonment of fields, and logging.

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Biodiversity

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Biodiversity is the number and variety of different species in an area and the variations within species. It includes genetic, species, and ecosystem diversity.

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Importance of Biodiversity

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Biodiversity is essential for the health of ecosystems. It contributes to stability and sustainability, allowing ecosystems to withstand disruptions and maintain balance over time.

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Keystone Species

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Keystone species, like bees, are crucial for the health of ecosystems. They connect various organisms, and changes affecting them can impact the entire ecosystem.

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Role of Pollinators

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Pollinators, such as bees, are keystone species that help plants reproduce by bringing pollen to flowering plants. They are vital for the health of animals that depend on plants for energy.