Unit-2: Ecosystem and Biodiversity Flashcards
Q1: What are the biotic components of an ecosystem?
A1: Producers, consumers (primary, secondary, tertiary), and decomposers.
Q2: What are the abiotic components of an ecosystem?
A2: Sunlight, temperature, water, soil, air, and nutrients.
Q3: Define producers and give an example.
A3: Producers are autotrophs that synthesize their food via photosynthesis or chemosynthesis (e.g., plants).
Q4: What is the role of decomposers in an ecosystem?
A4: Decomposers break down dead organic matter into simpler substances, recycling nutrients.
Q5: What is a food chain? Give an example.
A5: A linear sequence of energy flow through trophic levels. Example: Grass → Grasshopper → Frog → Snake → Eagle.
Q6: How is a food web different from a food chain?
A6: A food web shows interconnected food chains with multiple feeding relationships.
Q7: What are ecological pyramids? Name their types.
A7: Ecological pyramids represent trophic levels. Types: Pyramid of Numbers, Pyramid of Biomass, Pyramid of Energy.
Q8: State the 10% law in energy flow.
A8: Only 10% of energy is transferred to the next trophic level, while 90% is lost as heat.
Q9: What is ecological succession?
A9: Gradual changes in the ecosystem’s structure and species over time.
Q10: Differentiate between primary and secondary succession.
A10:
Primary Succession: Occurs on bare surfaces without soil.
Secondary Succession: Occurs in areas with pre-existing soil after a disturbance.
Q11: What are the main processes of the nitrogen cycle?
A11: Nitrogen fixation, nitrification, assimilation, ammonification, denitrification.
Q12: How is carbon cycled in an ecosystem?
A12: Through respiration, photosynthesis, decomposition, and burning of fossil fuels.
Q13: What is the significance of the phosphorus cycle?
A13: It cycles phosphorus, a vital nutrient for DNA, RNA, and ATP, through rocks, plants, animals, and sediments.
Q14: What is the main feature of a forest ecosystem?
A14: Dense trees, stratified vegetation, and rich biodiversity.
Q15: Name the main functions of a grassland ecosystem.
A15: Grazing for animals, soil conservation, and water retention.
Q16: What adaptations are found in desert ecosystems?
A16: Plants store water (succulents), animals conserve water and are active at night (nocturnal behavior).
Q17: List the types of aquatic ecosystems.
A17: Freshwater (ponds, lakes, rivers) and marine (oceans, estuaries).
Q18: What are the levels of biodiversity?
A18: Genetic diversity, species diversity, and ecosystem diversity.
Q19: Define genetic diversity.
A19: The variety of genes within a species.
Q20: What is biogeographical classification?
A20: Division of a region based on its geography and biodiversity.
Q21: Name a few biogeographical zones of India.
A21: Himalayas, Western Ghats, Thar Desert, Sundarbans.
Q22: Why is biodiversity important for aesthetic value?
A22: It adds beauty and provides recreational opportunities.
Q23: Why is India called a mega-diversity nation?
A23: India has 7% of the world’s species and diverse ecosystems due to its varied climate and topography.
Q24: Name the biodiversity hotspots in India.
A24: Western Ghats, Himalayas, Indo-Burma region, Sundaland (Nicobar Islands).
Q25: What are the major threats to biodiversity?
A25: Habitat loss, poaching, and man-wildlife conflicts.
Q26: How does poaching affect biodiversity?
A26: It leads to the decline or extinction of species.
Q27: What is in-situ conservation? Give examples.
A27: Conservation within natural habitats. Examples: National parks, wildlife sanctuaries, biosphere reserves.
Q28: What is ex-situ conservation? Give examples.
A28: Conservation outside natural habitats. Examples: Zoos, botanical gardens, gene banks.
