Energy Flow and Nutrient Cycles Flashcards
Plants that can photosynthesise are known as what, and why?
Producers.
As they produce their own food and produce and provide food for other organisms.
What is the ultimate source of energy in ecosystems?
The sun.
What are herbivores and what level of consumer are they?
-Animals that eat plants.
-Primary consumers.
What are carnivores and what level of consumer are they?
-Animals that eat meat (other animals)
-Secondary consumers.
Animals that feed on secondary consumers are known as?
Tertiary consumers.
What are omnivores?
Animals that eat both meat (other animals) and plants.
What do the arrows in food webs and chains represent?
The consumption and transfer of energy.
Each feeding level is known as a what?
Tropic level.
Why are food webs more accurate?
As most organisms will have more than 1 food source.
Name two decomposers:
Bacteria and fungi.
What is the name given to bacteria and fungi?
Saprophtic.
How do decomposers (saprophytes) feed? What type of digestion is this?
Saprophytic bacteria and fungi secrete enzymes into the soil or dead organism. The enzymes then breakdown the organic material and is then absorbed by the bacteria or fungi.
What are the four factors affecting decomposition?
-Moisture
-Oxygen
-Temperature
-A large surface area fornthe decomposing organism.
What two conditions will slow the rate of decomposition?
-Waterlogged soil
-Acidic conditions.
Why is waterlogged soil not good for decomposition?
No oxygen to respire.
