Biodiversity and Symbiosis

What term describes the variety of different organisms found in an ecosystem?

• population

• biodiversity

• ecosystem services

Answer explanation

The term that describes the variety of different organisms found in an ecosystem is biodiversity. Biodiversity refers to the wide range of species, including plants, animals, and microorganisms, that exist in a particular habitat or ecosystem. It is important to maintain biodiversity as it contributes to the overall health and stability of ecosystems, providing various ecosystem services such as pollination, nutrient cycling, and pest control.

Globally, the leading cause of biodiversity loss is 

• invasive species

• poaching and overharvesting

• pollution

• habitat change and loss 

Answer explanation

The leading cause of biodiversity loss globally is habitat change and loss. This occurs when natural habitats are destroyed or altered, leading to the displacement or extinction of species. Habitat change and loss can be caused by various factors such as deforestation, urbanization, and climate change. It is important to address this issue to protect and conserve biodiversity.

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 Which biome is more likely to survive a change in the environment?

• High (rich) biodiversity

• Low (poor) biodiversity

Answer explanation

A biome with high (rich) biodiversity is more likely to survive a change in the environment. This is because a diverse ecosystem has a greater variety of species, which increases its resilience and ability to adapt to changes. In contrast, a biome with low (poor) biodiversity has fewer species and is more vulnerable to disturbances. Therefore, the correct choice is 'High (rich) biodiversity'.

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High biodiversity not only helps the stability of Yellowstone National Park, but also makes it more

• resilient

• reliant

• fragile

• unstable

Answer explanation

High biodiversity not only helps the stability of Yellowstone National Park, but also makes it more resilient. The presence of diverse species ensures that the ecosystem can withstand disturbances and adapt to changes. This resilience is crucial for the long-term survival and functioning of the park. The option 'resilient' accurately describes this ability of biodiversity to enhance the park's stability and adaptability.

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Large populations with high genetic diversity are

• more likely to go extinct

• more likely to be invasive

• less likely to go extinct

• less likely to be invasive

Answer explanation

Large populations with high genetic diversity are less likely to go extinct. This is because genetic diversity allows populations to adapt to changing environments and increases their chances of survival. In contrast, populations with low genetic diversity are more vulnerable to diseases, environmental changes, and other threats, making them more likely to go extinct. Therefore, the presence of high genetic diversity in large populations provides them with a greater resilience and reduces the risk of extinction.

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Why is biodiversity in an ecosystem so important?

• Because it can help humans where to determine good places to develop farm land.

• Because places that have a healthy biodiversity are unaffected by major disturbances.

• Because having a high biodiversity allows ecosystems to withstand major changes.

• Because having a high biodiversity allows for fewer opportunities of competition for similar resources.

Answer explanation

Biodiversity in an ecosystem is crucial because it allows ecosystems to withstand major changes. It ensures that the ecosystem remains stable and can adapt to disturbances. Having a high biodiversity means that there are more species and genetic diversity, which increases the chances of survival for the ecosystem. This is important because ecosystems with a healthy biodiversity are more resilient and can recover from disturbances more effectively. Biodiversity also reduces competition for resources, allowing different species to coexist harmoniously.

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A species that plays a far more important in its community than its relative abundance might suggest.

• Keystone Species

• Pioneer Species

• Indicator Species

• Exotic Species

Answer explanation

A keystone species is a species that plays a far more important role in its community than its relative abundance might suggest. It has a significant impact on the structure and function of an ecosystem. This species is often responsible for maintaining the balance and stability of the ecosystem. The answer to the question is 'Keystone Species'.

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Match the term to its best description.

• mutualism

• a symbiotic relationship in which BOTH species benefit

• parasitism

• any close relationship between individuals of 2 different species

• symbiosis

• a symbiotic relationship in which one organism benefits and the other is harmed

• commensalism

• a symbiotic relationship in which one organism benefits and the other is neither helped nor harmed

Cattle egrets forage (feed) in fields among cattle. The egret gets easy access to flying insects stirred up by the cattle, and the cattle don't care if they are there or not.

• mutualism
• commensalism
• competition
• parasitism

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What type of symbiosis?  Hummingbirds feed on nectar from flowers.  The flowers are pollinated by hummingbirds as they move from flower to flower.

• commensalism
• mutualism
• parasitism
• predation

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