Biomes Flashcards
(57 cards)
Define the term ‘Biome’
A biome is the largest recognised subdivision, with a very large ecosystem made up of specific vegetation types and their associated fauna.
Biomes are typically defined by factors such as climate, vegetation, and animal life.
Discuss what ‘Ecosystem Services’ are
Ecosystem services are the benefits that humans receive from healthy and functioning ecosystems, which include:
* Provisioning services (e.g., food, water)
* Regulating services (e.g., climate regulation)
* Cultural services (e.g., recreational benefits)
* Supporting services (e.g., nutrient cycling)
These services are essential for human survival and well-being.
Outline which biomes exist between which lines of latitude
Biomes can be found at various latitudes, such as:
* Tropical Rainforest: Near the equator (0° latitude)
* Desert: 30° N and 30° S
* Temperate Forest: 30° to 60° N and S
* Tundra: Above 60° N
Each biome is characterized by distinct climate conditions and biodiversity.
Explain ‘Gross Primary Productivity’ and ‘Net Primary Productivity’
Gross Primary Productivity (GPP) total amount of organic material produced by photosynthesis
Net Primary Productivity (NPP) is the amount of organic material available after subtracting the energy used by plants for respiration.
Explain what a ‘Consumer’ is
A consumer is an organism that obtains its energy by feeding on other organisms, including plants (herbivores) and other animals (carnivores and omnivores).
Consumers are an essential part of food webs in ecosystems.
What are the three main types of consumers in biomes?
Herbivores, carnivores, and omnivores.
True or False: Herbivores primarily consume plants.
True.
Fill in the blank: Carnivores are consumers that primarily eat ______.
other animals.
What type of consumer is a bear that eats both plants and fish?
Omnivore.
Multiple Choice: Which of the following is NOT a type of consumer? A) Herbivore B) Carnivore C) Producer D) Omnivore
C) Producer.
What role do decomposers play in a biome?
They break down dead organic matter and recycle nutrients.
True or False: Omnivores can only eat plants.
False.
Fill in the blank: In aquatic biomes, primary consumers are often ______.
plankton.
What is a primary consumer?
An organism that eats producers, such as plants.
Multiple Choice: Which of the following is an example of a carnivore? A) Cow B) Lion C) Rabbit D) Deer
B) Lion.
Which type of consumer is most likely to be at the top of the food chain?
Carnivores.
True or False: All consumers are dependent on producers for energy.
True.
Fill in the blank: _______ are organisms that consume both plants and animals.
Omnivores.
What is the difference between a primary consumer and a secondary consumer?
Primary consumers eat producers; secondary consumers eat primary consumers.
Multiple Choice: Which of the following biomes would likely have the most herbivores? A) Desert B) Tundra C) Grassland D) Ocean
C) Grassland.
What type of consumers are often referred to as scavengers?
Carnivores that consume dead animals.
True or False: Decomposers are considered consumers.
True.
Fill in the blank: An animal that eats both plants and animals is called an ______.
omnivore.
What are apex predators?
Carnivores that have no natural predators.
