Questions and Answers
What is ecological tolerance?
What does the term 'Range' refer to in ecology?
The range of environmental conditions that are tolerable for survival in a species.
Rabbits thrive in temperatures above 85 degrees Fahrenheit.
False
Salinity is the concentration of ______ in water.
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What is the effect of flow rate on aquatic organisms?
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How does sunlight affect organisms?
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Which factors affect terrestrial ecosystems?
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Which factors affect aquatic ecosystems?
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Study Notes
Ecological Tolerance
- Ecological tolerance refers to the range of abiotic conditions that a species can endure for survival.
- It determines how species adapt to their environments based on various environmental factors.
Range
- The range encompasses environmental conditions that a species can tolerate.
- Inadequate or excessive levels of specific conditions can lead to mortality.
Temperature
- Species have specific temperature ranges for optimal growth and survival; extremes can be lethal.
- For example, rabbits thrive at approximately 32°F but experience stress and potential death above 85°F.
Salinity
- Salinity indicates the concentration of salt in water environments.
- Freshwater and saltwater species are often unable to survive outside their preferred salinity levels.
- Each species requires a specific water potential to maintain an isotonic state relative to their surroundings.
Flow Rate
- Flow rate impacts aquatic organisms, with different species adapted to certain water velocities.
- Various ecosystems such as oceans, rivers, and ponds accommodate species that thrive in their specific flow conditions.
Sunlight
- Sunlight serves as the principal energy source for life on Earth, crucial for photosynthesis.
- Both insufficient and excessive sunlight can harm organisms; daylight hours influence different species' survival—long hours benefit autotrophs but can be detrimental for nocturnal animals.
Terrestrial Ecosystems
- Terrestrial ecosystems are primarily influenced by temperature and sunlight availability, impacting the types of organisms that can thrive.
Aquatic Ecosystems
- In aquatic ecosystems, organisms are shaped by temperature, salinity, flow rate, and sunlight, which are essential for their survival and overall health.
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Description
Test your understanding of ecological tolerance and how species adapt to their environments. This quiz covers crucial factors such as temperature, salinity, and flow rate, essential for survival in various habitats. Dive in to learn about the limits and conditions that dictate species distribution.