Ecosystem Dynamics and Population Factors

The video discusses how ecosystems impact population sizes through biotic and abiotic factors, interactions, and resources. It explains population growth and decline, highlighting the role of births, deaths, and migration. The concept of limiting factors, such as food and water availability, is explored, along with examples like nitrogen deficiency and parasitism. Interspecific competition and carrying capacity are discussed, illustrating how populations stabilize. The video concludes with the impact of invasive species, using the kudzu vine as an example.

What are the two main types of factors that influence population size?

• Biotic and abiotic factors

• Genetic and environmental factors

• Physical and chemical factors

• Internal and external factors

Which of the following is an example of a biotic factor affecting population size?

• Water availability

• Temperature

• Number of prey animals

• Sunlight

What can cause a population to decrease?

• Increase in births

• Immigration

• Emigration

• Abundant resources

What is the term for the maximum population size that an environment can sustain?

• Carrying capacity

• Population limit

• Sustainability threshold

• Environmental maximum

Which of the following is a limiting factor for plant growth?

• Usable nitrogen

• Excess sunlight

• Abundant water

• High temperature

In an ecosystem, what happens when two species compete for the same resources?

• Resources become unlimited

• Both species thrive

• Both species go extinct

• One species may outcompete the other

What is the main limiting factor for carnivores in an ecosystem?

• Number of herbivores

• Water availability

• Temperature

• Shelter

What is a characteristic of an invasive species?

• It has many natural predators

• It faces no limiting factors

• It is naturally part of the ecosystem

• It decreases biodiversity

How can an invasive species affect local populations?

• By stabilizing the ecosystem

• By competing for limited resources

• By providing more resources

• By increasing biodiversity

What is an example of an invasive species mentioned in the video?

• Cactus

• Kudzu vine

• Bamboo

• Eucalyptus