D4.2 Stability and change SL

Question 1

What is ecosystem stability?

Answer 1

Ecosystem stability is the ability of an ecosystem to maintain its structure and function over time, despite changes or disturbances

Question 2

Give an example of a stable ecosystem.

Answer 2

The Amazon rainforest, one of the oldest and most complex ecosystems on Earth

Question 3

How do ecosystems maintain stability?

Answer 3

Through the accumulation of biodiversity, forming complex relationships that resist and recover from disturbances.

Question 4

What are the key components of ecosystem stability?

Answer 4

Resistance (ability to withstand disturbances) and resilience (ability to recover after disturbances).

Question 5

Why is the Amazon rainforest considered stable?

Answer 5

Due to its high biodiversity, complex food webs, and ability to recover from natural disturbances

Question 6

What is the role of energy supply in ecosystem stability?

Answer 6

A steady energy supply, primarily from the sun, is vital for all life processes and supports ecosystem stability

Question 7

How does nutrient recycling contribute to ecosystem stability?

Answer 7

Nutrient recycling maintains nutrient availability and diversity, supporting the productivity of populations

Question 8

Why is biodiversity important for ecosystem stability?

Answer 8

Biodiversity ensures a variety of species to fulfill ecological roles, providing resilience against disturbances.

Question 9

How do climatic factors affect ecosystem stability?

Answer 9

Climate, topography, and water availability shape ecosystems. Extreme conditions or weather events can reduce stability

Question 10

What is a tipping point in an ecosystem?

Answer 10

A critical threshold where a significant change results in irreversible alteration of the ecosystem’s structure or function.

Question 11

What is the purpose of using models in ecology?

Answer 11

To simplify complex systems for better understanding, explanation, prediction, and decision-making

Question 12

Give an example of an ecological model

Answer 12

Biosphere 2, a terrarium research system for studying self-organisation and dynamics of complex systems

Question 13

What can models predict in ecology?

Answer 13

Models can predict future behaviors of ecosystems, like climate change impacts

Question 14

Are models perfect representations of reality?

Answer 14

No, models are simplifications and may not capture all complexities of the system.

Question 15

How do scientists use models?

Answer 15

For hypothesis testing, theory development, data analysis, and scientific communication.

Question 16

What is a keystone species?

Answer 16

A species with a disproportionately large impact on its ecosystem relative to its abundance

Question 17

Give an example of a keystone species

Answer 17

Sea otters, which control sea urchin populations and maintain kelp forest health

Question 18

How do keystone species affect ecosystem sustainability?

Answer 18

They play critical roles in maintaining the balance and functionality of ecosystems

Question 19

What is the role of habitat modification by keystone species?

Answer 19

They shape and modify the physical structure of their habitat, creating new habitats for other species.

Question 20

How does the absence of keystone species affect ecosystems?

Answer 20

It can lead to imbalances, disrupting food webs and potentially destabilizing the entire ecosystem

Question 21

What are the factors affecting the sustainability of agriculture?

Answer 21

Soil erosion, use of agrochemicals, water management, and biodiversity

Question 22

How does soil erosion impact agriculture?

Answer 22

It leads to the loss of topsoil, crucial for plant growth, and can result from poor agricultural practices

Question 23

What is the effect of agrochemicals on soil and water?

Answer 23

They can lead to soil acidification and water pollution, affecting both soil productivity and aquatic ecosystems.

Question 24

Why is biodiversity important in agriculture?

Answer 24

It reduces vulnerability to pests, diseases, and climate change impacts.

Question 25

What is eutrophication?

Answer 25

The enrichment of water bodies with excessive nutrients, leading to overgrowth of algae and aquatic plants