Ecological Relationships and Interactions

Mr. Warren introduces community ecology, focusing on species interactions. He explains competition and the niche concept, emphasizing that no two species can occupy the same niche. Examples of niche differentiation are provided using finches and barnacles. Predator-prey relationships and adaptations are discussed, followed by an explanation of symbiosis, including parasitism, mutualism, and commensalism. The video concludes with a discussion on keystone species and their impact on ecosystems.

What is the primary focus of community ecology?

• The migration patterns of animals

• The genetic makeup of a species

• The interaction between two or more species

• The study of individual organisms

What is a niche in ecological terms?

• The habitat where an organism lives

• The sum of all interactions an organism has within its community

• The physical appearance of an organism

• The genetic code of an organism

Why can't two species occupy the same niche?

• They will both go extinct

• They will both thrive equally

• They will merge into a single species

• One will outcompete the other

What adaptation might a prey species develop in response to predation?

• Brighter colors

• Louder calls

• Camouflage

• Increased size

Which of the following is an example of parasitism?

• A bee pollinating a flower

• A fish cleaning a larger fish

• A wasp laying eggs in another insect

• A bird eating seeds

What is mutualism?

• A relationship where neither organism benefits

• A relationship where both organisms benefit

• A relationship where one organism benefits and the other is harmed

• A relationship where one organism benefits and the other is unaffected

What is the debate surrounding commensalism?

• Whether it is a form of parasitism

• Whether it harms both organisms

• Whether it actually exists

• Whether it benefits both organisms

What role do keystone species play in an ecosystem?

• They have little impact on the ecosystem

• They are the largest species in the ecosystem

• They are the most numerous species

• They have a significant impact on the community's structure

What happens to an ecosystem when a keystone species is removed?

• The ecosystem becomes more stable

• The diversity of species decreases

• The ecosystem remains unchanged

• The ecosystem becomes more diverse

Why do organisms engage in various relationships within a community?

• To migrate to new areas

• To increase their size

• To obtain energy and matter

• To establish dominance