Ecology and Ecosystems: Interactions and Interdependence on Our Planet

The video explores ecology, the study of organisms and their environment, emphasizing interdependence. It introduces ecological models, the biosphere, and ecosystems, detailing their components and interactions. The hierarchy from biosphere to organism is explained, along with the concepts of habitats and niches. The video contrasts generalists and specialists, highlighting their survival strategies and risks. It concludes with a call to action.

What does the term 'ecology' literally mean?

• The study of the environment

• The study of organisms

• The study of home

• The study of life

Why is the biosphere considered the largest ecological system?

• It includes all living organisms on Earth

• It is the only system with water

• It is the most complex system

• It is the only system with air

What is the primary function of an ecosphere model?

• To describe the physical environment

• To illustrate food chains

• To represent the biosphere

• To simplify the study of ecology

Which of the following is NOT a component of an ecosystem?

• Rocks

• Community

• Fish

• Sunlight

Which of the following is a non-living component of a pond ecosystem?

• Insects

• Dissolved oxygen

• Algae

• Fish

What is the difference between a habitat and a niche?

• A niche is larger than a habitat

• A habitat is larger than a niche

• A habitat is a home, a niche is a job

• A habitat is a job, a niche is a home

Which of the following is an example of a biotic factor?

• Fish

• pH level

• Rocks

• Temperature

What role does a redwood tree play in its environment?

• It provides shelter for animals

• It converts sunlight into sugar

• It produces oxygen

• It absorbs carbon dioxide

Which of the following best describes a generalist species?

• Lives in a specific habitat

• Eats only one type of food

• Has a high risk of extinction

• Eats a wide variety of foods

Why might a specialist species be at a higher risk of extinction?

• They have a broad diet

• They rely on a single food source

• They have a large population

• They can adapt to many environments