Ecosystem Concepts and Interactions

The video introduces fifth-graders to ecosystems, focusing on the interaction of living and nonliving elements. It explains biotic and abiotic components, ecosystem diversity, and the roles of competition and limiting factors. The video also covers habitats and niches, emphasizing the importance of diversity and the impact of human activities on ecosystems. Students are assigned a task to reinforce their understanding.

What is the primary source of energy for ecosystems?

• The Moon

• Ocean currents

• The Sun

• Volcanoes

Which of the following is a biotic component of an ecosystem?

• Rocks

• Water

• Plants

• Air

What term describes the non-living parts of an ecosystem?

• Inorganic

• Organic

• Abiotic

• Biotic

In an ecosystem, what is a group of the same species living in an area called?

• Community

• Population

• Niche

• Habitat

What is the term for the interaction where organisms compete for resources?

• Competition

• Predation

• Mutualism

• Symbiosis

What defines an organism's niche in an ecosystem?

• Its physical appearance

• Its color

• Its role and function

• Its size

How do organisms with narrow niches differ from those with broad niches?

• They can live in more diverse environments

• They have more varied diets

• They occupy very specific roles

• They migrate more frequently

What is a key characteristic of a diverse ecosystem?

• It has a uniform climate

• It has a few species

• It has many different species

• It is located near the poles

Why are ecosystems near the equator generally more diverse?

• They have fewer predators

• They are isolated

• They have more rainfall and warm temperatures

• They have less sunlight

What human activity can decrease ecosystem diversity?

• Recycling

• Planting trees

• Conserving water

• Building highways