Ecology Basics Quiz

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Questions and Answers

What is the basic unit of ecology?

  • Organism (correct)
  • Individual
  • Biome
  • Ecosystem

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

  • Bacteria (correct)
  • Water
  • Sunlight
  • Soil

The process by which organisms change over time is known as:

  • Evolution (correct)
  • Adaptation
  • Succession
  • Symbiosis

A food chain represents the flow of energy from:

<p>Producer to consumer to decomposer (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The primary producers in an ecosystem are:

<p>Plants (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The symbiotic relationship between a fungus and a plant root is called:

<p>Mutualism (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a terrestrial ecosystem?

<p>Desert (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The process of ecological succession begins with:

<p>Pioneer species (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The term 'niche' refers to:

<p>The role of an organism in an ecosystem (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a major factor that influences the distribution of organisms on Earth?

<p>All of the above (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary source of energy for most ecosystems on Earth?

<p>The Sun (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The process by which organisms adapt to their environment over time is known as:

<p>Evolution (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A food chain represents the flow of energy through an ecosystem. Which organisms are at the bottom of a food chain?

<p>Producers (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The interaction between two species where one benefits while the other is neither harmed nor benefited is called:

<p>Commensalism (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The total number of different species in a given area is referred to as:

<p>Biodiversity (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a biotic factor in an ecosystem?

<p>Bacteria (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The ecological role of an organism within a community is known as its:

<p>Niche (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The gradual change in a community over time, often leading to a climax community, is known as:

<p>Succession (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The process of converting sunlight into chemical energy by plants is called:

<p>Photosynthesis (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The maximum number of individuals an ecosystem can support is known as its:

<p>Carrying Capacity (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a potential consequence of habitat fragmentation?

<p>Decreased genetic diversity (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Analyze the impact of climate change on coral reefs. Which of the following is a likely consequence?

<p>Increased coral bleaching (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Evaluate the effectiveness of protected areas in conserving biodiversity. Which of the following factors might limit their success?

<p>Habitat fragmentation (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Analyze the role of keystone species in an ecosystem. Which of the following best describes their importance?

<p>They have a disproportionate impact on ecosystem structure and function. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Evaluate the impact of pollution on aquatic ecosystems. Which of the following is a potential consequence?

<p>Decreased fish populations (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Analyze the relationship between biodiversity and ecosystem stability. Which of the following is a likely correlation?

<p>Higher biodiversity leads to higher ecosystem stability. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Evaluate the effectiveness of sustainable agriculture practices in protecting ecosystems. Which of the following is a potential benefit?

<p>Decreased water pollution (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Analyze the impact of invasive species on native ecosystems. Which of the following is a potential consequence?

<p>Disruption of local food webs (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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Study Notes

Ecology Fundamentals

  • Basic Unit of Ecology: Organism is the smallest unit, critical for understanding ecological interactions.
  • Biotic Components: Includes living organisms like bacteria, while abiotic components include sunlight, water, and soil.

Ecological Processes

  • Evolution: The process where organisms change over time, leading to adaptations within species.
  • Ecological Succession: The gradual process of change in species structure in a community, starting with pioneer species.

Energy Flow in Ecosystems

  • Food Chains: Represent energy flow from producers (typically plants) to consumers and decomposers. Energy flows from producers to consumers.
  • Primary Producers: Mainly plants, which convert sunlight into energy via photosynthesis.

Symbiotic Relationships

  • Fungus and Plant Roots: The symbiotic relationship known as mutualism benefits both organisms.
  • Types of Interactions: Commensalism involves one organism benefiting while the other is unaffected; parasitism harms one while benefiting another.

Ecosystem Dynamics

  • Niche Concept: Refers to the role of an organism within its ecosystem, involving its interactions with biotic and abiotic factors.
  • Biodiversity: Represents the total number of different species in an area and is crucial for ecosystem health.

Environmental Influences

  • Factors Influencing Distribution: Climate, soil, and topography collectively impact where organisms are found.
  • Habitat Fragmentation: Can lead to decreased genetic diversity among species, negatively affecting population resilience.

Coral Reefs and Climate Change

  • Coral Bleaching: A likely consequence of climate change, indicating stress in coral reef ecosystems due to rising temperatures.

Protected Areas and Biodiversity

  • Challenges in Conservation: Habitat fragmentation and inadequate funding can limit the success of protected areas in preserving biodiversity.

Keystone Species

  • Role of Keystone Species: They are crucial for maintaining the structure and function of their ecosystem, significantly impacting overall balance.

Pollution and Aquatic Ecosystems

  • Consequences of Pollution: Can lead to decreased fish populations and has detrimental effects on aquatic biodiversity.

Biodiversity and Stability

  • Biodiversity vs. Ecosystem Stability: Higher biodiversity generally contributes to greater ecosystem stability and resilience against disturbances.

Sustainable Agriculture

  • Benefits of Sustainable Practices: Reduces water pollution and enhances biodiversity while mitigating issues such as soil erosion.

Invasive Species

  • Impact of Invasive Species: They can outcompete native species, leading to ecological imbalances and decreased biodiversity.

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