AS91155 2.3 L1 formative quiz

What is the definition of an ecological niche?

• a) The physical location where a species lives

• b) The role a species plays in its ecosystem

• c) The number of individuals in a species population

• d) The genetic makeup of a species

Answer explanation

An ecological niche refers to the role or position that a species has within its ecosystem, including its interactions with other species and its use of resources.

Which taxonomic group includes animals that are adapted to living in water but breathe air?

• Fish

• Reptiles

• Mammals

• Birds

Answer explanation

Reptiles. While reptiles are typically adapted to living on land, some species, such as turtles and crocodiles, are adapted to living in water and breathe air.

Which taxonomic group of animals is known for its adaptations to a wide range of ecological niches?

• a) Insects

• b) Birds

• c) Mammals

• Fish

Answer explanation

Mammals are known for their ability to adapt to a wide range of ecological niches, from deserts to rainforests, and from aquatic to terrestrial environments.

What is an adaptation?

• a) The process of an organism changing its ecological niche

• b) The ability of a species to change its genetic makeup in response to environmental pressures

• c) The process by which different species evolve to fill different ecological niches

• d) A behaviour or trait that increases the chances of survival and reproduction in it a species

Answer explanation

An adaptation is a characteristic or behaviour that has evolved over time and helps a species to survive and reproduce in its environment.

Which of the following is an example of a behavioral adaptation?

• a) The sharp claws of a lion

• b) The ability of a chameleon to change color

• c) The mating call of a bird

Answer explanation

The mating call of a bird. Behavioral adaptations are behaviors that help an organism survive and reproduce, such as mating calls, territorial displays, or migration patterns.

Which of the following is an example of a structural adaptation?

• a) The ability of a frog to jump long distances

• b) The sharp teeth of a shark

• c) The ability of a snake to slither through narrow spaces

Answer explanation

Structural adaptations are physical features that help an organism survive and reproduce, such as sharp teeth, powerful limbs, or specialized organs.

What is a specialist species?

• a) An organism that can survive in a wide range of ecological niches

• b) An organism that has a very specific set of ecological requirements

• c) An organism that can only survive in a very narrow range of environmental conditions

Answer explanation

Specialist species are organisms that have evolved to survive in a very specific set of ecological conditions, such as a particular type of food or habitat.

What is an example of parasitism?

• a) A bee pollinating a flower

• b) A lion hunting a gazelle

• c) A tick feeding on a dog

• d) A bird building a nest in a tree

Answer explanation

Parasitism is a type of species interaction where one species (the parasite) benefits from the interaction, while the other species (the host) is harmed. An example is a tick feeding on a dog.

Which of the following is an example of a competitive interaction between species?

• a) A lion killing and eating a gazelle

• b) A bee collecting nectar from a flower

• c) A bird building a nest in a tree

• d) A tick feeding on a deer

Answer explanation

Competitive interactions occur when different species compete for the same resources, such as food, water, or shelter.

Which of the following is an example of a mutualistic interaction between species?

• a) A tick feeding on the blood of a deer

• b) A bee pollinating a flower

• c) A snake eating a mouse

• d) A clownfish living in a sea anemone

Answer explanation

Mutualistic interactions occur when two species benefit from their interaction with each other