Community Ecology Flashcards
(4 cards)
1
Q
what is community ecology
A
study of how species interact and share resources
2
Q
what are the characteristics of communities?
A
- structure: type and abundance of species
- dynamics: changes that occur over time
- foundation species: greatest influence on structure, usually primary producers
- keystone species: species vital to maintenance
3
Q
describe community dynamics
A
- changes in the structure and composition of the community
- stable communities are at equilibrium
- changes can be natural or human-induced
4
Q
What is succession?
A
- the appearance and disappearance of a species, often due to novel disturbances
- Primary: new land becomes available
- Secondary: disturbance in only a part of the ecosystem
