Ecological Concepts and Relationships

The video covers the final chapter on ecology, discussing the hierarchy from populations to the biosphere. It explains abiotic and biotic factors affecting environments, symbiotic relationships like mutualism, parasitism, and commensalism, and the dynamics of competition. The video also explores population growth factors, both density-dependent and independent, and the impact of invasive species. Predator-prey dynamics are illustrated, emphasizing the balance needed in ecosystems.

Which of the following best describes a community in ecological terms?

• A group of the same species living in an area

• All living and non-living things in an area

• The entire planet's living space

• All populations of different species in an area

What is an example of an abiotic factor in an ecosystem?

• Temperature

• Herbivory

• Competition

• Predation

Which type of symbiotic relationship benefits one organism while the other is unaffected?

• Mutualism

• Competition

• Parasitism

• Commensalism

Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of a biome?

• Unique community of plants and animals

• Specific climate conditions

• Uniform temperature across the globe

• Distinctive environmental features

What is a density-dependent factor that can limit population growth?

• Temperature

• Disease

• Earthquakes

• Floods

Which survival tactic involves an organism blending into its environment?

• Mimicry

• Camouflage

• Parasitism

• Warning coloration

Which of the following is an example of mimicry?

• A caterpillar that looks like a snake

• A bird that sings to attract mates

• A frog with bright colors to warn predators

• A plant that grows in low light

What characteristic is common among invasive species?

• They are native to the ecosystem

• They tolerate a wide range of environmental conditions

• They reproduce slowly

• They are always beneficial to the ecosystem

In a predator-prey graph, what typically happens when the prey population increases?

• The predator population decreases

• The predator population increases

• The prey population becomes extinct

• The ecosystem collapses

What is the main reason for the oscillation in predator-prey populations?

• Prey always outnumber predators

• Predators always outnumber prey

• Changes in prey availability affect predator numbers

• Constant environmental conditions