Lec 8 - Species Flashcards
Criteria of defining “Species”
- genetically distinct
- interbreed with themselves freely
- can’t reproduce successfully with other species
Species are defined by genetic distinctiveness, interbreeding capabilities, and reproductive isolation.
Autotrophs vs Heterotrophs
Autotrophs create their own food
heterotrophs need to eat others for energy
Many aquatic organisms, especially microbes, do not reproduce sexually.
organisms can be classified based on:
3 major taxonomy groups
* Eukarya
* Bacteria
* Archaea
Most knowledge is about Eukarya, but diversity in Bacteria and Archaea is significant.
How can aquatic organisms be classified beyond taxonomic classification?
- Function (trophic position
- Habitat
- Interactions
Each classification method provides a different perspective on the organisms.
What does ‘benthic’ refer to in habitat classification?
On the bottom
Other habitats include pelagic (in open water) and emergent (emerging from the water).
What are the types of interactions classified by how a species interacts with others?
- Direct interactions
- Indirect interactions
Direct interactions occur between individuals of two species, while indirect interactions involve a third species.
Define direct interactions.
Interactions occurring between individuals of two species involving no others
An example is a minnow species predating on insect species larvae.
Define indirect interactions.
Interaction between two species mediated by a third
These interactions can complicate ecological relationships.
interaction definition: exploitation
one guy benefits over another guy suffering
These effects can vary based on the specific interaction type, such as mutualism or competition.
interaction definition: competition
both guys are competing over the same thing
Both species benefit from the relationship.
interaction definition: mutualism
both guys are doing something that helps each other
This interaction type can be subtle and often overlooked.
interaction definition: commensalism
one guy just chilling, the other guy is benefiting
interaction definition: amensalism
one guy just chilling, the other guy is suffering
interaction definition: neutralism
both guys just chilling, neither benefiting nor hurting the other
benthic organism live
on the bottom
lotic organisms live
in flowing water
emergent organisms live
emerging from the water
epiphytic organisms live
on plants
pelagic organisms live
in open water
lentic organisms live
in still water
submergent orgnisms live
under the water
epilithic organisms live
on rocks
