ECOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENT - (abiotic + biotic factors) Flashcards
Define the term population
group of organisms of one species, living in same area at same time
Define community
all of populations of different species living in same area
Define habitat
place where living organisms live
Define ecosystem
community of organisms + habitat they live in
What are abiotic factors?
non-living variables that can influence where organisms live
Name examples of abiotic factors
Light intensity moisture levels soil + water pH temperature O2 level availability of minerals wind intensity CO2 level
What are biotic factors?
living factors that can affect size + distribution of populations
Name examples of biotic factors
availability of food
predators
pathogens
competition for food, water + shelter
Explain why light intensity affects population
some plants need brighter sunlight for better growth
others grow better inside
(therefore light intensity will affect distribution of plant species)
Explain why moisture levels affects population
many plants cant survive in waterlogged soil
others can grow in these conditions (are not drought tolerant)
Explain why temperature affects population
animals + plants grow in specific temperatures
changing these temperatures will affect;
GROWTH + REPRODUCTION OF SPECIES
Explain why pH of soil or water affects population
some plants adapted to grow in alkaline soil
others in acidic soil
(therefore will affect their distribution)
Explain why CO2 affects population
areas with high CO2 levels (woodlands) more likely to have HEALTHY plants growing there as CO2 is a reactand needed for photosynthesis.
Explain why availability of food affects population
areas with rich + diverse food supply have more animal species than those who dont
Explain how predators affect population
they prevent prey populations increasing out of control
