desserts and rainforests Flashcards
(23 cards)
Define ecosystem
A natural system where living organisms interact with each other and their environment
Ecosystems include both biotic and abiotic factors.
What are biotic factors?
Plants, animals, microorganisms
Biotic factors are the living components of an ecosystem.
What are abiotic factors?
Climate, soil, water, sunlight
Abiotic factors are the non-living components that affect living organisms.
Define biome
Large scale ecosystems defined by climate, vegetation and geography
Examples include rainforest and desert.
Characteristics of tropical rainforests
High temperature, high rainfall (more than 2000mm/year), biodiversity
Tropical rainforests have distinct layers: emergent, canopy, understory, and shrub.
What are the threats to tropical rainforests?
Deforestation, agriculture, urbanisation
These activities significantly impact biodiversity and ecosystem health.
Characteristics of hot deserts
High temperatures (50 degrees), low rainfall (less than 250mm), extreme diurnal temperature range
Found in subtropical high pressure zones like the Sahara.
List adaptations of desert plants
- Cacti store water
- Deep roots
- Spiky spines (barrel-shaped cactus)
These adaptations help them survive in arid conditions.
List adaptations of desert animals
- Nocturnal behaviour
- Water storage (camels, fennec fox)
Adaptations are crucial for survival in extreme environments.
What are some threats to hot deserts?
Desertification, overgrazing, climate change
These factors can lead to loss of habitat and biodiversity.
What is the primary source of energy in ecosystems?
Sun
Energy flow begins with sunlight, which is harnessed by producers.
List the levels of the food chain
- Producers (plants)
- Consumers (herbivores)
- Secondary consumers (carnivores)
- Decomposers (fungi, bacteria)
Energy transfer is inefficient, with about 10% absorbed at each level.
What is the carbon cycle?
Photosynthesis, respiration, decomposition, fossil fuel burning
The carbon cycle is vital for maintaining ecosystem balance.
What processes are involved in the nitrogen cycle?
- Fixation
- Nitrification
- Assimilation
- Ammonification
- Denitrification
Each step is crucial for nutrient availability in ecosystems.
Where is the Amazon rainforest located?
Brazil, South America, eastern side of the continent, Atlantic Ocean, between equator and tropic of Capricorn
It is the largest tropical rainforest in the world.
What is the climate of the Amazon rainforest?
Equatorial climate, high rainfall, high temperatures
This climate supports rich biodiversity.
What percentage of Earth’s oxygen is produced by the Amazon rainforest?
20%
This highlights its crucial role in global ecology.
What are the threats to the Amazon rainforest?
Logging, cattle ranching
These activities lead to significant deforestation.
What are some solutions for the Amazon rainforest?
- Ecotourism
- Sustainable farming
- Reforestation
These approaches aim to protect and restore the rainforest.
Where is the Sahel region located?
Southern region of Sahara desert, Northern Africa
It is a transition zone between the Sahara and more humid regions.
What is the climate of the Sahel region?
Desert climate, high temperature, low rainfall
This climate poses challenges for agriculture and habitation.
What problems does the Sahel region face?
Desertification due to overgrazing, deforestation, climate change
These issues threaten livelihoods and biodiversity.
What are some solutions for the Sahel region?
- Afforestation
- Crop rotations
- Water conservation
These strategies aim to combat desertification and improve sustainability.
