Module 2 - Dynamic Ecosystems - Lesson 1 & 2 Vocabulary

The parts of Earth and the surrounding atmosphere where there is life.

• population

• biosphere

• community

• species

All the organisms of the same species that live in the same area at the same time.

• bisophere

• population

• species

• community

A group of organisms that have similar traits and are able to produce fertile offspring.

• population

• species

• community

• biotic potential

All the populations living in an ecosystem at the same time.

• population

• species

• community

• biosphere

A factor that can limit the growth of a population.

• carrying capacity

• community

• biotic potential

• limiting factor

The potential growth of a population if it could grow in perfect conditions with no limiting factors.

• population

• limiting factor

• biotic potential

• carrying capacity

The largest number of individuals of one species that an ecosystem can support over time.

• biotic potential

• limiting factor

• overpopulation

• carrying capacity

Condition that occurs when a population becomes so large that it causes damage to the environment.

• population

• limiting factor

• overpopulation

• biotic potential

A close, long-term relationship between two species that usually involves an exchange of food or energy.

• symbiosis

• commensalism

• parasitism

• mutualism

A symbiotic relationship that benefits one species but does not harm or benefit the other.

• symbiosis

• commensalism

• parasitism

• mutualism