Feeding Relationships, Symbiosis, Etc

Question 1

Explain the role of decomposers

Answer 1

Decomposers include bacteria and fungi. They secrete enzymes which break down dead plants and animal material into a substance called humus

Question 2

What are the symbiotic relationships ?

Answer 2

Parasitism
Mutualism
Commensalism
Predator-prey relationships

Question 3

Define commensalism and give 2 examples

Answer 3

It is a relationship where one organism benefits, but the other is not harmed nor does it benefit

Some orchids or ferns on trees
Shark and remora

Question 4

Define mutualism and give 2 examples

Answer 4

It is a relationship where both organisms benefit

Sea anemone and a clown fish

Question 5

Define parasitism and give 2 examples

Answer 5

It’s a relationship in which the parasite is benefited, but the host may be harmed

Lice and ticks on mammals

Question 6

What would happen if there were no decomposers?

Answer 6

All the vital nutrients in the dead organisms wouldn’t be able to return to the living organisms or be recycled

Question 7

In what form is energy lost in a food chain?

Answer 7

Detritus or as heat

Question 8

explain energy flow within a food chain or web

Answer 8

As energy is moved up a trophic level, only 10% of the energy makes it to the next level.

Energy enters a food chain as light energy from sun, and is lost as heat energy to the environment

Question 9

Two categories of recyclable materials

Answer 9

Biodegradable
non-biodegradable materials

Question 10

Importance of recycling manufactured and other waste materials

Answer 10

Prevents wastage of potentially useful materials
Reduces energy usage
Reduces pollution
Reduces quantity of waste

Question 11

Impact of the continual re-use of materials in nature

Answer 11

the continual re-use of materials in nature through processes like decomposition and nutrient cycling ensures the efficient use of resources, minimizes waste, and sustains the balance and diversity of ecosystems.

Question 12

Difficulties encountered in recycling manufactured materials

Answer 12

1) More difficult to collect, transport and store waste items when separated into different types

2) can be difficult to persuade households and industries to separate their waste into separate types

3) can be time-consuming, as items have to be cleaned before they’re recycled

4) some countries don’t have the facilities to use recycled raw materials