Biology Chapter 3 and 4 Flashcards
Equilibrium?
The state of an ecosystem with constant biotic and abiotic conditions.
succession?
the process of establishing a community following a disturbance
primary succession?
succession on new exposed ground. Occurs very slowly and where no life existed before. Ex after a volcanic eruption
secondary succession?
succession in a disturbed ecosystem. Occurs fast and follows a disturbance not destroying the ecosystem. Ex following a forest fire
Habitat fragmentation?
occurs when large blocks of habitat are cut to smaller pieces by development such as roads or housing.
Larger blocks support stable populations, bigger areas have more to offer, populations can use the entire area, and create wildlife corridors for migration.
Biodiversity?
the variety of life found in an area
Species richness?
number of species found in an area
Where is species diversity greatest?
tropical rainforests due to the climate which can support a variety of species
extirpated?
when a species no longer exists in a specific area but lives elsewhere.
endangered?
species in danger of going extinct
threatened?
species likely to become endangered
special concern?
species that may become threatened
Non native species?
a species living in an area where it did not first appear. Could be accidental or intentional.
invasive species?
introduced species with growing populations that spread and have a negative effect on their environment.
What does introducing non native or invasive species to en ecosystem do?
can cause the extinction of native animals and plants. It can force them to compete for limited resources.
Do all non native species become invasive?
No
Acid precipitation?
rain that has been made more acidic than usual by the combination of certain chemicals in the air with water vapor.
How does acid precipitation affect aquatic ecosystems?
lowers population of microscopic organisms.
How does acid precipitation affect terrestrial ecosystems?
it chemically changes the soil by depleting nutrients needed by plants. This damages vegetation and results in slower growth.
How do oil spills affect aquatic ecosystems?
Covers ocean, beach, seabed, and animals. Sea birds ingest it when cleaning themselves.
methods to clean oil spills?
Skimming/Vacuuming
Bioremediation - using microorganisms to consume and break down environmental pollutants.
Burning - oil can be lit on fire if floating on the surface so that it burns away.
Natural fertilizer?
plant nutrients have been obtained from natural sources and not chemically altered by humans. Ex. plant/animal waste, compost, manure.
Synthetic fertilizer?
manufactured by chemical processes
How does algal bloom affect aquatic ecosystems?
The bacteria involved in decomposition of algal bloom uses up a lot of dissolved oxygen which kills fish and other organisms.
