Energy and Nutrient Relations Flashcards
What is/are the difference(s) between autotrophs and heterotrophs?
Autotrophs use inorganic sources of carbon and energy such as photosynthesis and/or chemosynthesis, while heterotrophs use organic molecules as energy sources.
What are the 3 types of photosynthesis and how are they used?
1) C-3 Photosynthesis; used mostly by plants and algae (particularly in mesophyll cells). Consists of the plant converting 3-PGA to an energy rich sugar molecule. Not very water efficient (water can escape due to stomata being opened), and allows oxygen to enter.
2) C-4 Photosynthesis; tends to occur in drier environments in order to save water (need less stomata open) and reduces internal CO2 concentrations. This occurs in bundle sheath cells.
3) CAM Photosynthesis; limited to cacti and similar plants (aka in deserts) because this is the most water conscious method (by opening stomata at night). This method also has low rate of photosynthesis, so takes longer to grow.
Which statement about CAM and C4 plants is true?
They both make use of the enzyme PEPcase.
Which has higher C:N ratios, plants or animals/fungi/bacteria?
Plants meaning they are rich in carbon, but low in nitrogen compared to animals/fungi/bacteria that are low in carbon but rich in nitrogen.
Name and describe the 3 prey defenses of carnivores:
Aposomatic coloring (warning colors), Mullierian mimicry (co-mimicry among several species of noxious organisms), and Batesian mimicry (harmless species mimic noxious species)
