B16 - Adaptations, Interdependence and Competition Flashcards
distribution
where species are found within an ecosystem, often affected by abiotic and biotic factors
interdependence
when different populations rely on each other
community
group of interdependent living organisms, of all species, in an ecosystem
biotic factors
living factors affecting populations and communities
ecosystem
an area where communities live
abiotic factors
non living features of the environment
examples of abiotic factors
- water - rivers/lakes/oceans
- soil
- human development
- light intensity
- wind speed and direction
examples of biotic factors
- plants
- animals
- predation
- disease
what factors affect living organisms
- light intensity
- temperature
- soil mineral content
- availability of CO2
how does light intensity affect living organisms
light limits photosynthesis - affects the distribution of plants and animals
how does temperature affect living organisms
limits photosynthesis - affects size of plants and therefore the distribution of carnivores and herbivores
how does soil mineral content affect living organisms
more nitrates and minerals - affects distribution of plants, carnivorous plants
how does availability of carbon dioxide affect living organisms
CO2 availability is a limiting factor for plant growth - affects distribution of organisms
what do animals compete for
- territory
- food and water
- mates
how are animals adapted to be successful when competing for food
- herbivores feeding on the same kind of plant
- carnivores feeding on the same kind of prey - often small creatures like mice
- fast running, sharp claws etc to compete with their own species
adaptations of prey
- camouflage
- thick layers of body fat
- protective spines
- muscular limbs
- protective shell
- sulphur spray
adaptations of predators
- enhanced eyesight
- sharp claws/talons/beaks
- large wings
- increased speed
- increased agility
ways to find a mate
- physical battle
- showing off (mainly birds with feathers/performances)
- creating nice nest/den
what do plants compete for
- light
- water
- minerals
- CO2
competition in plants when water is scarce
- deep root systems
- waxy cuticles
- small leaves
methods of seed dispersal
- by wind - dandelions
- by animal fur - burrs
- by water - coconuts
- egesting and eating - tomato
- by explosions - peas
adaptations of thermophiles
- heat resistant protein molecules
- enzymes that work best at high temperatures
adaptation of halophiles
- resistance to areas of high salinity and water stress
extremophiles
organisms that are able to live and thrive in extreme environments/habitats
large SA:V ratio
small animals lose heat more quickly
small SA:V ratio
larger animals make more heat
examples of structural adaptation
thick blubber - whales, polar bears
examples of behavioural adaptations
living in packs - monkeys, lions
examples of functional adaptations
heightened senses - eyesight in hawks
importance of camouflage adaptations
increase chance of survival by avoiding predators/ avoiding being seen by prey
specialisations of desert animal kidneys
highly concentrated urine minimises water loss
desert animal SA:V
large to maximise heat loss
