Science Review: Ecosystems and Earth Spheres

Shows the number of individuals of all populations in each trophic level. It does not always follow the same shape as a pyramid of energy as it follows population size.

Total mass of organisms in each trophic level. Doesn't always need to be upright as biomass can be larger in higher trophic levels. Lower trophic levels have more energy and biomass available to them.

The process by which water moves through the Earth's spheres through evaporation, condensation, and precipitation.

The movement of carbon between the abiotic and biotic parts of an ecosystem.

The process by which nitrogen is converted into a usable form for living things.

Gradual and predictable changes in the composition of a community and abiotic factors, initiated by a disturbance.

Ecological succession that occurs on bare rock, where no life has previously existed.

Ecological succession that occurs after a disturbance has disrupted, but not destroyed, a community.

The first species to colonize a barren area, often hardy and fast-growing.

A stable, mature community that has reached a balance with its environment.

The variety of life in a particular ecosystem, often measured by the number of species present.

A non-native species that has been introduced to an ecosystem and causes harm to the environment.

The introduction of a species that is not naturally found in a given ecosystem.

The negative impact of invasive species on an ecosystem's natural processes, such as energy flow and nutrient cycles.

The economic costs associated with invasive species, including damage to crops, forests, and tourism.

Using other organisms to control the population of an invasive species.

Using physical barriers or removal to control invasive species.

The loss of large areas of natural ecosystems due to human activities like farming and urban development.

Dividing a region into smaller parcels or fragments, making it more vulnerable to outside influences.

The most serious threat to the sustainability of ecosystems (second only to climate change).

These chemicals can settle in water, posing risks to wildlife and human health.

The use of pesticides to control invasive species, which can have negative environmental consequences.

The process of a heavy metal (like Mercury) building up in the body of an organism over time, through continuous consumption of contaminated sources.

Mercury settles in an aquatic ecosystem and is absorbed by organisms like algae. As these organisms get eaten by others, the mercury concentration increases in higher trophic levels.

The removal of all or most trees in a given area, mimicking a forest fire. It is economical and efficient.

Mature trees are harvested in a series of cuts, leaving some trees standing for shelter and new growth.

Specific trees are taken at different times, minimizing ecological impact but maximizing cost.

A forest ecosystem that sustains itself without human intervention, naturally regenerating and managing resources.

The process of soil erosion caused by clear-cutting, which can harm aquatic ecosystems and interfere with fish spawning.

Planting only one or two species of trees after clear-cutting, leading to decreased biodiversity.

Growing different crops in the same area in sequential seasons to replenish soil nutrients and manage pests.

Selecting crops best suited for a specific environment, like climate and soil conditions.

Farming methods that avoid synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, and genetically modified organisms, emphasizing natural processes.

Changing planting and harvesting times to avoid peak pest populations.

Planting different crops together or rotating crops to discourage pest outbreaks.

Using pheromone-based traps to confuse and disrupt mating in certain pest insects.

Any harmful contaminants released into the environment, such as pesticides, fertilizers, and plastic.

The relationship between the amount of a good or service available and the demand for it, influencing the price. Those with greater resources often outbid others, leading to higher prices for scarce goods like rare tropical trees.

The practice of managing wildlife populations through hunting to ensure their health and sustainability. This is especially important for species without natural predators, like deer.

A system where biotic and abiotic factors are intentionally controlled and maintained, often mimicking a natural ecosystem but with human intervention.

Water is a valuable resource that we depend on for drinking, agriculture, industry, and power generation.

The practice of raising crops and livestock deliberately, allowing us to produce more food efficiently and sustainably. This reduces the need to rely on wild resources.

The unintended negative impacts of forestry practices, such as pesticide use and fire suppression, on species other than the primary target.

The use of pesticides and fire reduction practices by forestry companies to prevent damage to targeted species, but these actions can also harm non-target species.

When a population of a species grows too large, it can lead to competition for resources and disease spread, highlighting the need for managed populations.