Ecology Flashcard 3

Front

What is commensalism?

Back

A type of symbiotic relationship where one organism benefits while the other is neither helped nor harmed.

Front

What role do decomposers play in the carbon cycle?

Back

Decomposers return carbon into the soil by breaking down dead organic matter.

Front

What is a physical adaptation?

Back

A physical characteristic that has evolved in an organism to help it survive in its environment, such as a monkey's gripping tail.

Front

What is transpiration in plants?

Back

The process by which plants release water vapor into the air through their leaves.

Front

What is intraspecific competition?

Back

Competition between individuals of the same species for resources such as food, space, or mates.

Front

What is the difference between mutualism and commensalism?

Back

In mutualism, both organisms benefit from the relationship, while in commensalism, one benefits and the other is unaffected.

Front

What is the carbon cycle?

Back

The process through which carbon is exchanged between the atmosphere, land, water, and living organisms.

Front

What is an example of a behavioral adaptation?

Back

A learned behavior that helps an organism survive, such as migration patterns in birds.

Front

What is the significance of decomposers in an ecosystem?

Back

Decomposers break down dead organisms, recycling nutrients back into the soil and supporting plant growth.

Front

What is the role of producers in an ecosystem?

Back

Producers, such as plants, convert sunlight into energy through photosynthesis, forming the base of the food chain.