Unit 2 Flashcards
Biotic factor
Living factors
Abiotic factors
Non-living factors
Examples of biotic factors
Competition for resources, food availability, grazing and predation
Examples of abiotic factors
Light intensity, moisture, pH and temperature
Biotic and abiotic can affect
Biodiversity and the distribution of organisms.
What is light intensity measured with
Measured using a light meter, the sensor is held upwards and a reading is taken from the scale. Light sensor may be inadvertently shaded so it is important to ensure all users stand clear.
Soil moisture and pH are measured using a
Moisture meter or pH meter, the probe is inserted into the ground and a reading is taken from the scale. The probe on the meter may retain soil from a previous sample so it’s important to wipe the probe in between readings.
What is temperature measured with
A thermometer, thermometer is placed in an open area and a reading is taken from the scale. Placing thermometer in direct sunlight or holding it in a warm hand may provide an in accurate reading so it is important to place the thermometer in a shaded are
Quadrant
Quadrats are thrown randomly and the number of squares containing the organism of interest are counted. Sample a small portion of investigates area therefore it’s important to throw quadrat randomly , several times and calculate an average.
Pitfall traps
Sunk into the ground and camouflaged to allow invertebrates to fall in. It is important to ensure the trap is level with the soil and camouflaged so insects will fall in.
Paired statement keys
Use a series of statements to identify organisms.
Indicator species
Species that by their presence or absence indicate environmental quality/levels of pollution.
