Ecology Flashcards
Ecosystem=
Complex level of organisms made up of living (biotic) and non living (abiotic) parts.
Eg. Communities of organisms and non living eg. Physical surroundings
Define population
Same species in the same area at one particular time. Living of population= community.
Define species;
Exist in an ecosystem together within a specific ecological niche.
Define ecological organisms:
Parasites, parasitoids, mutualism, commensalism
Define consumers :
Unable to produce their own food HETEROTROPHS and because their nutrition from consuming other organisms they are called consumers.
Name the types of consumers =
Herbivores
Carnivores
Omnivore
Detritivores
Why are producers essential?
Because they are the base of the food chain. They are self feeder using photosynthesis.
THEIR AEROBIC RESPIRATION IS ESSENTIAL TO THE SURVIVAL OF OTHER ORGANISMS!
Herbivores are ?
Consumers that eat plants and are the first (primary) consumer on the food chain.
Carnivores are?
Consumers that eat other animals and are the secondary/ tertiary consumers in the food chain.
Omnivores are?
Eat both plants and animals.
Detritivores are?
Release enzymes to break down organic matter (poo etc.)
Remains. Absorbs the products through external digestion
Decomposers are?
Convert organic materials to organic matter (producers), convert organic matter into inorganic materials (decomposers).
Their matter can be recycled within ecosystems and remain sustainable.
Interspecific competition is where
Members of different species compete for the same resource eg. Mates, food, shelter.
Instraspecific competition is where
Competition is between member Of the Same species for a resource.
Define parasite/ host:
Organisms that live in or out of the host, which they obtain their own food, shelter and other requirements from. ( host may be harmed but is usually not killed. Some are considered to be pathogens).
