Ecosystems Flashcards
What is an ecosystem?
An ecosystem is a community of living organisms interacting with their physical environment.
True or False: Ecosystems can only be terrestrial.
False
Fill in the blank: An ecosystem includes both _____ and _____ components.
biotic, abiotic
What are biotic components?
Biotic components are the living parts of an ecosystem, such as plants, animals, and microorganisms.
What are abiotic components?
Abiotic components are the non-living parts of an ecosystem, such as water, soil, and climate.
Multiple Choice: Which of the following is NOT an ecosystem? A) Forest B) Ocean C) Desert D) Mountain
D) Mountain
What is the primary source of energy for most ecosystems?
The sun
True or False: Ecosystems can change over time due to natural and human activities.
True
What is biodiversity?
Biodiversity refers to the variety of life in a particular ecosystem or the planet as a whole.
Fill in the blank: The process by which plants convert sunlight into chemical energy is called _____.
photosynthesis
Multiple Choice: Which of the following is an example of a freshwater ecosystem? A) Coral reef B) Rainforest C) Lake D) Grassland
C) Lake
What is an ecological niche?
An ecological niche is the role or function of an organism within its ecosystem.
True or False: Predators and prey are both essential components of an ecosystem.
True
What is a food chain?
A food chain is a linear sequence of organisms through which nutrients and energy pass as one organism eats another.
Fill in the blank: The top predator in a food chain is known as a _____ species.
keystone
Multiple Choice: Which of the following is a consequence of habitat destruction? A) Increased biodiversity B) Decreased biodiversity C) Improved ecosystem services D) None of the above
B) Decreased biodiversity
What is an ecosystem service?
Ecosystem services are the benefits that humans receive from ecosystems, such as clean water, pollination, and climate regulation.
True or False: All ecosystems are self-sustaining.
False
What is primary succession?
Primary succession is the process of ecosystem development that occurs on surfaces where no soil exists.
Fill in the blank: _____ succession occurs in areas that have been disturbed but still contain soil.
Secondary
Multiple Choice: Which of the following is a major threat to ecosystems? A) Climate change B) Conservation C) Sustainable practices D) None of the above
A) Climate change
What is an invasive species?
An invasive species is a non-native species that spreads rapidly in a new environment, often causing harm to native species and ecosystems.
True or False: Ecosystems are static and do not change over time.
False
What is the role of decomposers in an ecosystem?
Decomposers break down dead organic matter, recycling nutrients back into the ecosystem.
Fill in the blank: The _____ is the largest terrestrial ecosystem on Earth.
taiga
Multiple Choice: Which ecosystem is characterized by high biodiversity? A) Tundra B) Desert C) Tropical rainforest D) Grassland
C) Tropical rainforest
