B6.1 Effect of environment on distribution

Question 1

What does the term distribution mean in biology?

Answer 1

The way organisms are spread out across a habitat or environment.

Question 2

Name three environmental factors that can affect the distribution of organisms.

Answer 2

Temperature, availability of water, and availability of light.

Question 3

Give one example of a gas whose availability can affect species distribution.

Answer 3

Oxygen for animals or carbon dioxide for plants.

Question 4

How can temperature influence where an organism is found?

Answer 4

It affects enzyme activity and survival; organisms live where the temperature suits their needs.

Question 5

How can water availability affect an organism’s distribution?

Answer 5

Organisms need water for survival; some are adapted to dry areas, others to moist ones.

Question 6

How might light intensity affect where plants grow?

Answer 6

Light is needed for photosynthesis; low light limits plant growth.

Question 7

What is a biotic factor? Give one example.

Answer 7

A living factor in the environment, e.g., competition or predation.

Question 8

What is an abiotic factor? Give one example.

Answer 8

A non-living environmental factor, e.g., temperature or pH.

Question 9

Give an example of how human activity can change the distribution of organisms.

Answer 9

Deforestation can destroy habitats and force animals to migrate.

Question 10

How can changes in environmental conditions lead to a change in species distribution?

Answer 10

Species may move, adapt, or die out depending on their ability to cope with the new conditions.