Week 11

Question 1

What are the differences between exponential and logistic models of population growth

Answer 1

Exponential = whole population X a constant factor in generations
Logistic = initial exponential growth curtailed by limiting factors

Question 2

What are some applications of population ecology?

Answer 2

Biological control=population level (after Disease or pest)
Sustainable harvesting=population effected by harvesting
Monitoring endangered species

Question 3

What are the common characteristics of all communities?

Answer 3

Different species interacting, diversity of species, a dominant species, feeding relationships, energy flow

Question 4

What is the difference between species richness and species diversity

Answer 4

Richness= Number of different species in a community
Diversity= Number of different species and their relative abundance

Question 5

Describe the interactions of organisms in a community that have a Neutralism relationship?

Answer 5

Neither species are affected.

Question 6

Describe the interactions of organisms in a community that have a Commensalism relationship

Answer 6

One species benefits, other is not affected

Question 7

Describe the interactions of organisms in a community that have a Amensalism relationship

Answer 7

One species is harmed, no affect on other

Question 8

Describe the interactions of organisms in a community that have a Mutualism relationship

Answer 8

Both species will benefit

Question 9

Describe the interactions of organisms in a community that have a Predation relationship

Answer 9

One species benefits, the other is harmed

Question 10

Describe the interactions of organisms in a community that have a Competition relationship

Answer 10

Both species are disadvantaged (competition over food)

Question 11

What are the differences between primary and secondary succession?

Answer 11

Primary=sequence of communities replacing one another until a finial community is reached
Secondary=final community is altered via something, final community try’s to stay on top.

Question 12

How do feeding relationships regulate energy flow and nutrient cycling within communities?

Answer 12

10% of energy gathered by one organism is passed onto the next one. Lion king, circle of life.

Question 13

Give some examples on how human disturbance alter natural communities?

Answer 13

Introduction of diseases, pests (plants/animals), Burns/hydrology,
Selective grazing of stock, clearing, climate change.