1 Flashcards
Which of the following describes the relationship between a predator and prey?
One species is harmed while the other benefits.
In which of the following scenarios would an ecosystem’ carrying capacity for wildebeest increase?
A neighboring population of herbivores migrates away
What is the primary limiting factor for population growth in a dry and hot (arid) region of the Serengeti?
Water availability
Graph A: Population of wildebeest and predators over a decade in the Serengeti; What does the graph suggest about the relationship between wildebeest and their predators?
Predators and wildebeest populations follow a similar trend
…
2008
Scenario: During the dry season in the Serengeti, there is a significant reduction in water sources. Wildebeest populations tend to migrate in search of water; How might this migration affect predator populations?
Predator populations will decrease as prey becomes scarce.
Scenario: During the dry season in the Serengeti, there is a significant reduction in water sources. Wildebeest populations tend to migrate in search of water; What type of growth is illustrated by the wildebeest population during times of abundant resources?
Exponential Growth
Graph C: Logistic Growth Curve; At which year on the graph does carrying capacity come into play?
9-10
What is the primary cause of the plateau observed in the population at year 9-10?
Resource limitation
A new predator is introduced into the Serengeti, disrupting the natural balance. How might the introduction of the new predator affect the biodiversity of the ecosystem?
Biodiversity will decrease
Graph D: Carbon Dioxide Levels in 2 Regions of the Serengeti; How do elevated carbon dioxide levels in Region A likely affect the biogeochemical cycle?
Decrease in photosynthesis
Scenario: Overgrazng by wildebeest has led to habitat degradation; Which of the following will most likely happen as a result of this overgrazing?
Decrease in plant populations
Scenario: Overgrazng by wildebeest has led to habitat degradation; What might be a long-term consequence of continuous habitat degradation?
Loss of biodiversity
Graph E: Logistic vs. Exponential Growth Curves in Different Biomes; Which graph represents exponential growth and why?
Graph 1 (red), because it illustrates an unlimited growth phase.
Graph E: Logistic vs. Exponential Growth in Different Biomes; Why is logistic growth more common in ecosystems than exponential growth?
Resources are always limited
In which year did population density peak?
2012
What might explain the drop in population density in 2015?
Reduction in food sources
Climate change has altered the Serengeti’s seasonal rainfall patters; How will this impact the water cycle and the populations of the Serengeti?
Droughts will decrease prey populations
Climate change has altered the Serengeti’s seasonal rainfall patterns; What role do abiotic factors like rainfall play in limiting population growth?
They can limit food and water, reducing population growth.
Graph F: Nitrogen Levels in Soil Over Time; What process is responsible for the increase in nitrogen levels seen in the graph?
Nitrogen fixation
Graph F: Nitrogen Levels in Soil Over Time; How does nitrogen availability affect the Serengeti’s plant and herbivore populations?
Nitrogen limits plant growth, reducing food for herbivores
What term describes all the living organisms in a particular area?
Community
Which term refers to the non living components of an ecosystem, like water, rocks, and temperature?
Abiotic
What is the maximum population size that an environment can support called?
Carrying Capacity
