B15 Adaptations, interdependence, and competition Flashcards
What is a population?
total number of organisms of the same species that live in a specific geographical area
What is a community?
group of two or more populations of different species living in a specific geographical area
What is an ecosystem?
the interaction of a community of living organisms with the non-living parts of their environment
What is competition?
contest between organisms within a community for resources
What is interdependence?
when species in a community depend on others for resources and shelter
What do animals often compete for?
food, mates, and territory
What do plants often compete for?
light, space, water, and mineral ions
What is an abiotic factor?
non-living factor that can affect a community
List the abiotic factors that can affect a community.
• carbon dioxide levels for plants
• light intensity
• moisture levels
• oxygen levels for animals that live in water
• soil pH and mineral content
• temperature
• wind intensity and direction
What is a biotic factor?
living factor that can affect a community
List the biotic factors that can affect a community.
• availability of food
• new predators
• new pathogens
• competition between species
What is a stable community?
when all species and environmental factors are in balance, so population sizes remain fairly constant
How do adaptations help an organism?
they enable the organism to survive in the conditions in which it lives
What are the three types of adaptations?
structural, behavioural, and functional
What is an extremophile?
an organism that lives in a very extreme environment
