Topic 5 - Energy & Ecosystems Flashcards
What do pyramids of energy show?
Represent the total amount of energy that flows through each trophic level. They are always pyramid shaped as energy cannot be created.
What do pyramids of biomass represent?
Represent the total dry mass of living organisms each trophic level.
What do pyramids of numbers represent?
These show the numbers of organisms at each trophy level in a food chain.
The width of the bars represent the numbers and can be drawn to scale.
What is biological control?
Involves using a predator or parasite of a pest to control, not eradicate its population.
How is energy minimised in intensive rearing of domestic livestock?
NAME?
What is the equation for net production in consumers?
N = I-(F+R)
N = net production
I = chemical energy
F = chemical energy lost to environment
R = respiratory losses
Why is leaching less common in natural fertilisers?
They are less soluble and need to be decomposed first by microorganisms.
What are saprobionts?
Micro organisms that digest the dead tissue and waste, releasing the elements back into the cycle.
Briefly explain the nutrient cycle from producer to decomposer
NAME?
What are advantages and disadvantages of biological control?
NAME?
