Questions and Answers
What is ecological succession?
The gradual change of the type of species that live in an area.
Explain the difference between primary and secondary succession.
Primary succession begins on rock. Secondary succession begins on soil.
What is the difference between pioneer species and climax communities?
Pioneer species are the first species that settle or colonize an area. Climax communities are made of species that are stable and don't change very much.
What is biodiversity?
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Describe the effects of increased biodiversity on an ecosystem.
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Describe why catastrophic events have such an impact on the biodiversity of an ecosystem.
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How does genetic variation increase population stability?
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A limiting factor is anything that prevents organisms from getting the things they need. Examples include _____, _____, and _____.
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Explain what is meant by a climax community.
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Describe three observations that would indicate that the forest Rosie is observing has been restored to equilibrium.
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Explain why both the abiotic and biotic factors are different in polar and desert ecosystems.
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Study Notes
Ecological Succession
- Ecological succession is the gradual change in species composition within a specific area over time.
- Primary succession occurs on bare rock, whereas secondary succession starts in areas with existing soil, following disturbances.
Pioneer Species vs. Climax Communities
- Pioneer species are the initial organisms to colonize disrupted or new environments, facilitating further ecological development.
- Climax communities represent a stable and mature ecosystem where species composition remains relatively unchanged.
Biodiversity
- Biodiversity refers to the variety and number of organisms in a particular geographic region, contributing to ecosystem health.
- Increased biodiversity enhances ecosystem sustainability, making it more resilient to changes and disturbances.
Impact of Catastrophic Events
- Catastrophic events, such as fires or floods, can severely damage habitats, leading to reductions in biodiversity.
Genetic Variation and Population Stability
- Genetic variation within populations allows for better adaptation to environmental changes, increasing overall stability.
- Homogeneous populations lack resilience; if one individual is affected by a change, all individuals may be impacted.
Limiting Factors
- A limiting factor is anything that restricts an organism's access to essential resources, such as water, food, and space.
Climax Community Indicators
- A variety of plant species, including grasses, shrubs, and mature trees, indicates a restored climax community.
- Stability in the mix of species suggests minimal change in the ecosystem, signaling equilibrium.
Abiotic and Biotic Factors: Polar vs. Desert Ecosystems
- Polar ecosystems feature extreme cold, ice, and snow, supporting specially adapted flora and fauna, like polar bears that rely on oceanic food sources.
- Desert ecosystems are characterized by hot, arid conditions and thin soils, with organisms like cacti that are adapted to conserve water and withstand heat.
- The differences in abiotic factors (temperature, moisture) drive distinct biotic communities in each ecosystem.
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Test your knowledge with these flashcards on ecological succession. Learn about the differences between primary and secondary succession, pioneer species, and climax communities. Perfect for science students looking to reinforce their understanding.
