basic terms and definitions Flashcards
definition of ecology
ecology is the study of the interaction between organisms with one another, and between organisms and their environment
definition of abiotic factors
abiotic factors are physical factors an organism interactions with within their environment
definition of biotic factors
biotic factors are living organisms of an environment that an organism interacts with
definition of producer
a producer is an organism that makes it own food via chlorophyll through photosynthesis
definition of consumers
consumers are organisms that are unable to make their own food, and instead obtain nutrients by feeding.
definition of decomposers
decomposers are organisms that obtain energy by breaking down dead organisms, faeces and excretory products. they return nutrients to the environment
definition of population
a population is a group of organisms of one type that live in the same habitat
definition of community
a community consists of multiple populations that live together in a defined area
definition of ecosystem
an ecosystem consists of a community and its non-living surroundings
