Basics of Ecology

• What is a population in ecology?

  All organisms of one species in a habitat
• What defines a community in ecology?

  Populations of different species in a habitat
• What characterizes a stable community?

  Species and environmental factors are balanced
• What is an ecosystem?

  Interaction of organisms and their non-living environment
• What is adaptation in ecology?

  A feature enabling survival in normal habitat conditions
• What does interdependence mean in a community?

  Species depend on others for survival needs
• How can a change in an ecosystem affect a community?

  It can impact the entire community's balance
• What are biotic factors in a community?

  Living factors that affect organisms
• What are abiotic factors in a community?

  Non-living factors that affect organisms
• What are some examples of abiotic factors?

  Light intensity, moisture level, temperature
• What do organisms compete for in a community?

  Light, space, minerals, and water
• How can new predators affect a community?

  They can disrupt the balance of species
• What is the impact of competition on species?

  One species may outcompete another
• What are the three types of adaptation?

  Structural, behavioral, and functional
• What is a structural adaptation?

  A physical feature aiding survival
• Give an example of a structural adaptation.

  A white winter coat for camouflage
• What is a behavioral adaptation?

  A change in behavior for survival
• Give an example of a behavioral adaptation.

  Birds migrating to warmer climates
• What is a functional adaptation?

  A metabolic change aiding survival
• Give an example of a functional adaptation.

  Animals lowering metabolism to hibernate
• What are extremophiles?

  Organisms adapted to extreme conditions
• Where can extremophiles be found?

  In high temperature, pressure, or salt conditions
• What are the factors affecting communities in ecology?

  • Light intensity
  • Wind intensity and direction
  • Moisture level
  • CO2 levels
  • O2 levels
  • Temperature
  • Soil pH and mineral content
  • Food availability
  • New predators and pathogens
• What are the strengths and weaknesses of competition in ecological communities?

  Strengths:

  • Promotes diversity
  • Drives adaptation

  
  

  Weaknesses:

  • Can lead to extinction
  • Reduces population sizes