Pest Ecology

Question 1

Discuss the significance of the term “ecology” and its origin. How has the field of ecology evolved over time?

Answer 1

The term “ecology” is derived from the Greek term “oikos,” meaning “house,” and “logy,” meaning “the science of” or “the study of.” It was coined by Ernst Haekel, a German biologist, in 1869. Ecology is the scientific study of organisms in relation to their environment. Over time, the field of ecology has evolved to encompass the study of ecosystems, biodiversity, conservation, and the impact of human activities on the environment.

Question 2

Objective Questions:
2. Who coined the term “ecology” and in which year?
a) Ernst Haekel, 1869
b) Charles Darwin, 1859
c) Rachel Carson, 1962
d) Gregor Mendel, 1865

What does the term “ecology” refer to?
a) The study of insects and their behavior
b) The study of organisms in relation to their environment
c) The study of genetics and inheritance
d) The study of climate and weather patterns

According to E.P. Odum, how would you define ecology?
a) The study of ecosystems and their interactions
b) The study of the structure and function of nature
c) The study of evolutionary processes in living organisms
d) The study of human impact on the environment

Answer 2

a) Ernst Haekel coined the term “ecology” in 1869.

b) The term “ecology” refers to the study of organisms in relation to their environment.

b) According to E.P. Odum, ecology can be defined as the study of the structure and function of nature.

Question 3

Insect ecology focuses on understanding the physiology and behavior of insects in relation to their environment. Why is it important to study insect ecology, and what are some practical applications of this knowledge?

Answer 3

insect ecology is important because insects play crucial roles in ecosystems as pollinators, decomposers, and as a food source for other organisms. Understanding their physiology and behavior helps us comprehend their ecological interactions, population dynamics, and their responses to environmental changes. Practical applications of insect ecology include pest management, conservation of endangered species, and studying the impact of climate change on insect populations and their ecological roles.

Question 4

Define the terms “organism,” “population,” “habitat,” and “community” in the context of ecology. Explain the interrelationships between these ecological concepts.

Answer 4

Organism refers to an individual living thing, population represents groups of individuals of any kind of organism, habitat is the place where an organism lives, and community includes all the populations of a given area. A community can be defined as an interacting “web” of populations where individuals in a population feed upon and are fed upon by individuals of other populations. These ecological concepts are interconnected as organisms make up populations, populations inhabit specific habitats, and communities consist of multiple populations interacting within an ecosystem.

Question 5

Which of the following statements best defines an organism?
a) A group of individuals of any kind of organism
b) The place where an organism lives
c) The individual living thing
d) All the populations of a given area

What is a habitat?
a) The individual living thing
b) The place where an organism lives
c) A group of individuals of any kind of organism
d) The interacting “web” of populations in a given area

What does a community in ecology refer to?
a) The individual living thing
b) The place where an organism lives
c) A group of individuals of any kind of organism
d) All the populations of a given area that interact with each other

Answer 5

c) The individual living thing is the best definition of an organism.

b) A habitat is the place where an organism lives.

d) A community in ecology refers to all the populations of a given area that interact with each other.

Question 6

Discuss the ecological concept of a community and its importance in understanding ecosystem dynamics. Provide examples of interactions between populations within a community and their ecological significance.

Answer 6

The concept of a community is essential in understanding ecosystem dynamics as it allows us to analyze the interactions between different populations within an ecosystem. Examples of interactions within a community include predation, competition, mutualism, and symbiosis. These interactions play a crucial role in shaping population dynamics, species distribution, and the overall stability of ecosystems. For instance, predator-prey relationships regulate population sizes, while mutualistic interactions such as pollination contribute to the reproductive success of flowering plants. Understanding these interactions is vital for conservation efforts, managing biodiversity, and predicting the impacts of environmental changes on ecosystem functioning.

Question 7

Define an ecosystem and explain its significance in the field of ecology. Provide examples of natural ecosystems and discuss their characteristics.

Answer 7

An ecosystem is the functioning together of a community and the nonliving environment, where continuous exchange of matter and energy takes place. It is the ultimate unit for study in ecology as it encompasses both living organisms and the abiotic factors that influence them. Examples of natural ecosystems include ponds, lakes, and forest ecosystems. These ecosystems exhibit characteristics such as energy flow, nutrient cycling, and interactions between different species.

Question 8

Fill in the blank: An ecosystem is the functioning together of a ________ and the ________ environment, where continuous exchange of matter and energy takes place.
a) Population, living
b) Community, nonliving
c) Organism, natural
d) Habitat, terrestrial

Which of the following is an example of a natural ecosystem?
a) Agricultural field
b) Urban park
c) Desert
d) Greenhouse

The ________ refers to the part of the Earth that contains all the ecosystems.
a) Atmosphere
b) Hydrosphere
c) Geosphere
d) Biosphere

Answer 8

b) Community, nonliving

c) Desert

d) Biosphere

Question 9

The ________ is the term used for all the Earth’s ecosystems functioning together on the global scale.

Answer 9

Biosphere

Question 10

Discuss the concept of the biosphere and its significance in the study of ecology. How do ecosystems contribute to the functioning of the biosphere? Provide examples to support your answer.

Answer 10

The biosphere refers to the sum total of all the Earth’s ecosystems functioning together on a global scale. It encompasses the interactions between living organisms and their physical environment. Ecosystems play a crucial role in the functioning of the biosphere by cycling nutrients, exchanging energy, and maintaining a balance within the Earth’s systems. For example, the Amazon rainforest ecosystem contributes to the production of oxygen, regulates climate patterns, and supports a diverse array of species. The interconnectedness of ecosystems within the biosphere highlights the importance of understanding their dynamics and implementing sustainable practices to ensure the health and well-being of our planet.

Question 11

Explain the concept of autecology and its significance in ecological studies. How does the study of individual organisms or species in relation to their environment contribute to our understanding of ecological processes? Provide examples to support your answer.

Answer 11

Autecology is the study of individual organisms or species in relation to their environment. It focuses on understanding the unique characteristics, adaptations, and interactions of organisms with their surroundings. The study of autecology contributes to our understanding of ecological processes by providing insights into species’ ecological niche, population dynamics, and responses to environmental changes. For example, studying the autecology of a particular bird species can help us understand its preferred habitat, feeding behavior, and reproductive strategies, which in turn can inform conservation efforts and habitat management.

Question 12

Compare and contrast autecology and synecology. How do these two branches of ecology complement each other in studying the interactions between individual organisms and communities? Discuss the benefits of integrating autecological and synecological approaches in ecological research.

Answer 12

Autecology and synecology are two interconnected branches of ecology that complement each other in studying the interactions between individual organisms and communities. Autecology provides a foundation for understanding the physiological, behavioral, and ecological traits of species, which are crucial for studying species interactions within communities. By studying the autecology of key species, researchers can gain insights into their roles and impacts on community structure and ecosystem functioning. Integrating autecological and synecological approaches allows for a more comprehensive understanding of ecological processes, from the individual to the community level. For example, combining autecological studies of a predator species with synecological investigations of its prey can provide insights into predator-prey dynamics, trophic cascades, and community stability.

Question 13

Explore the applications of autecology and synecology in the field of conservation biology. How do these ecological disciplines contribute to the conservation and management of species and ecosystems? Provide real-world examples to support your discussion.

Answer 13

Both autecology and synecology have significant applications in the field of conservation biology. Autecology helps identify the ecological requirements and vulnerabilities of species, which are crucial for developing effective conservation strategies. Understanding the autecology of endangered species, for instance, can aid in habitat restoration, population monitoring, and management actions aimed at promoting their survival and recovery. Synecology contributes to conservation efforts by studying community dynamics, species interactions, and ecosystem functioning. It provides insights into the impacts of habitat fragmentation, invasive species, and climate change on ecological communities. Synecological studies can guide conservation planning, species reintroduction programs, and the protection of critical habitats to maintain biodiversity and ecosystem resilience.

Question 14

Analyze the importance of synecology in understanding ecological communities. How does the study of groups of organisms associated in a community contribute to our understanding of species interactions, biodiversity, and ecosystem functioning? Provide specific examples to illustrate your points.

Answer 14

Synecology plays a crucial role in understanding ecological communities. By studying the groups of organisms associated in a community, synecology allows us to investigate species interactions, trophic relationships, competition, predation, and mutualism. It provides insights into the distribution patterns, abundance, and diversity of species within a given environment. For example, studying the synecology of a coral reef ecosystem can reveal the intricate web of interactions among corals, fish, invertebrates, and other organisms, helping us understand the functioning of the ecosystem, the effects of disturbances, and the factors influencing species coexistence. Synecology provides a holistic perspective on the dynamics and complexity of ecological systems.

Question 15

Abiotic components of the ecosystem include ___________ such as carbon dioxide, oxygen, water, and nitrogen.
Biotic components of the ecosystem consist of ___________ and ___________.
Producers in the ecosystem are also known as ___________ and include green plants and phytoplankton.
Consumers in the ecosystem depend on ___________ for their energy and nutrients.
Primary consumers, also known as ___________, feed directly on producers.
Secondary consumers are ___________ that primarily feed on other consumers.
Tertiary consumers are ___________ that have a mixed diet, including both plant and animal matter.
Decomposers, such as ___________, break down organic matter and recycle nutrients back into the ecosystem.
Abiotic components of the ecosystem include climatic factors such as ___________, relative humidity, rainfall, light, and air.
Transformers in the ecosystem refer to organisms that ___________ organic matter into different forms.

Question 16

Objective Questions:

1. Which of the following is an abiotic component of the ecosystem?
   a) Producers
   b) Consumers
   c) Oxygen
   d) Decomposers
2. Autotrophs in the ecosystem are also known as ___________.
   a) Primary consumers
   b) Producers
   c) Decomposers
   d) Tertiary consumers
3. Which type of consumer primarily feeds on other consumers?
   a) Primary consumers
   b) Secondary consumers
   c) Tertiary consumers
   d) Producers
4. What is the role of decomposers in the ecosystem?
   a) Breaking down organic matter
   b) Producing energy through photosynthesis
   c) Consuming primary producers
   d) Preying on other consumers
5. Biotic components of the ecosystem include ___________.
   a) Carbon dioxide and water
   b) Temperature and relative humidity
   c) Producers and consumers
   d) Oxygen and nitrogen

Answer 16

1. c) Oxygen
2. b) Producers
3. b) Secondary consumers
4. a) Breaking down organic matter
5. c) Producers and consumers

Question 17

Explain the difference between abiotic and biotic components of the ecosystem. Provide examples of each and discuss their importance in ecological processes

Answer 17

Abiotic components refer to the non-living factors in an ecosystem, such as temperature and water, while biotic components include living organisms like plants and animals. Examples of abiotic components include sunlight and soil composition, while examples of biotic components include producers, consumers, and decomposers. These components are crucial for the functioning of the ecosystem, as they interact and influence each other in various ecological processes.

Question 18

Describe the role of producers in the ecosystem. How do autotrophs, such as green plants and phytoplankton, contribute to energy flow and nutrient cycling?

Answer 18

Producers, also known as autotrophs, play a vital role in the ecosystem. They convert sunlight energy into chemical energy through photosynthesis, producing organic compounds that serve as food for other organisms. Autotrophs are the primary source of energy in the ecosystem, supporting the entire food web. Green plants and phytoplankton are examples of autotrophs. Besides energy production, they also contribute to nutrient cycling by absorbing and storing essential elements.

Question 19

Compare and contrast primary, secondary, and tertiary consumers in the ecosystem. Discuss their feeding habits, ecological roles, and examples of each.

Answer 19

Primary consumers, also known as herbivores, feed directly on producers. They obtain their energy and nutrients by consuming plant material. Examples include grazing animals like deer and rabbits. Secondary consumers are carnivores that primarily feed on other consumers. They consume herbivores and obtain energy by feeding on the primary consumers. Tertiary consumers are omnivores that have a mixed diet, including both plant and animal matter. They occupy the highest trophic level in the food chain. For instance, humans can be considered tertiary consumers. Each consumer level plays a crucial role in energy transfer and regulating population dynamics in the ecosystem.

Question 20

Discuss the significance of decomposers in the ecosystem. How do decomposers contribute to nutrient recycling and the breakdown of organic matter? Provide examples of decomposer organisms and their ecological functions.

Answer 20

Decomposers are essential for the ecosystem as they break down organic matter, such as dead plants and animals, into simpler substances. They release nutrients back into the environment, making them available for reuse by producers. Decomposers include organisms like bacteria and fungi. Their activity aids in nutrient recycling and maintaining ecosystem balance. Decomposers also help in the decomposition of organic waste, preventing the accumulation of dead matter and contributing to soil fertility.

Question 21

Analyze the interdependence between producers and consumers in the ecosystem. How does the transfer of energy and nutrients occur between these components? Discuss the consequences of disruptions in this relationship.

Answer 21

The interdependence between producers and consumers in the ecosystem is essential for energy flow and nutrient cycling. Producers, through photosynthesis, convert solar energy into chemical energy stored in organic compounds. Consumers, in turn, obtain this energy by consuming producers or other consumers. Energy is transferred from one trophic level to another through feeding relationships. Disruptions in this relationship can have significant impacts on the ecosystem. For example, a decrease in producer populations can lead to food scarcity for herbivores, affecting their survival and potentially impacting higher trophic levels.

Question 22

Evaluate the role of climatic factors, such as temperature, relative humidity, rainfall, light, and air, in shaping ecosystems. How do these abiotic components influence the distribution and abundance of biotic components?

Answer 22

Climatic factors play a crucial role in shaping ecosystems. Temperature affects the metabolic rates and distribution of organisms. Relative humidity influences water availability and affects the survival of certain species. Rainfall is essential for plant growth and influences the productivity of ecosystems. Light availability affects photosynthesis and, consequently, the energy available to the ecosystem. Air composition and quality influence the respiration and overall health of organisms. Changes in these abiotic components can lead to shifts in species distributions, ecosystem productivity, and community composition.

Question 23

Examine the concept of polyphagous, monophagous, and oligophagous feeding habits among primary consumers. How does the diet specialization of herbivores influence community dynamics and species interactions?

Answer 23

Polyphagous, monophagous, and oligophagous feeding habits among primary consumers reflect their diet specialization. Polyphagous consumers feed on a wide range of plant species, while monophagous consumers feed on only one specific plant species. Oligophagous consumers have a limited diet, feeding on a few related plant species. These feeding habits influence community dynamics and species interactions. For example, herbivores with specialized diets can exert selective pressure on certain plant species, affecting their abundance and distribution. Understanding these feeding habits helps in studying trophic interactions and the coevolution of species in the ecosystem.

Question 24

Discuss the challenges and opportunities associated with decomposer organisms in the ecosystem. How do decomposers contribute to ecosystem stability, and what are the potential consequences of altered decomposition processes due

Answer 24

Decomposer organisms have both challenges and opportunities in the ecosystem. On one hand, they face competition for organic matter from other decomposers, and their activity can be influenced by environmental factors such as temperature and moisture. Additionally, the decomposition process releases energy in the form of heat, which can limit microbial activity in some cases. On the other hand, decomposers play a critical role in nutrient cycling, breaking down complex organic compounds and releasing nutrients back into the ecosystem. Their activity contributes to soil fertility and helps maintain the overall balance of nutrients in the ecosystem. Alterations in decomposition processes can have cascading effects on nutrient availability, ecosystem productivity, and carbon cycling.

Question 25

list down the aims and objectives if studying ecology

Answer 25

Aims and Objectives of studying Ecology
* Study the factors which control the number and location of the organism.
* The local and geographical distribution and abundance of organism.
* Temporal changes in the occurrence, abundance and activities of organism.
* The inter-relationship between organism in population and communities.
* The structural adaptations and functional adjustments of organisms to their physical environment.
* The behaviors of organism under natural conditions(ethology)
* The evolutionary development of ecosystem.
* Development of mathematical models relate interaction of parameters.
* Conservation and management of natural resources,
frame one critical questiona and one subjective question

Question 26

How does studying the factors that control the number and location of organisms contribute to our understanding of ecological dynamics and population dynamics?

Answer 26

Studying the factors that control the number and location of organisms is crucial for understanding ecological dynamics and population dynamics. It allows us to gain insights into the mechanisms that influence species distribution, abundance, and interactions within ecosystems. By identifying and studying these factors, ecologists can analyze the complex relationships between organisms and their environment, such as resource availability, competition, predation, and environmental conditions. This knowledge is essential for predicting and managing changes in populations and communities, as well as for designing effective conservation and management strategies for natural resources. Overall, studying these factors provides a comprehensive understanding of the dynamic nature of ecosystems and the processes that shape them.

Question 27

Fill in the blanks:
a. Agroecosystem is largely created and maintained to satisfy _______ wants or needs.
b. Agroecosystem is the basic unit of _______ management - a branch of applied ecology.
c. A typical agroecosystem is composed of involvement of _______.
d. Agroecosystems include _______ communities.
e. Agroecosystems also involve interactions with the _______ environment.
.F………………………is the basic unit of pest management-a branch of applied ecology
Multiple Choice:
Which of the following is NOT a component of a typical agroecosystem?
a. Uniform crop-plant population
b. Animal communities
c. Microbiotic communities
d. Natural ecosystems
e. Weed communities

Answer 27

Fill in the blanks:
a. human
b. pest
c. men
d. weed
e. physical
f.agroecosystem

Multiple Choice:
d. Natural ecosystems

Question 28

Explain the concept of agroecosystem and its significance in pest management.

Answer 28

Agroecosystem is a human-created ecosystem designed for agricultural purposes. It involves the cultivation of crops, management of pests and weeds, and the interaction of various organisms within the agricultural environment. Agroecosystems are significant in pest management as they provide a framework for understanding and implementing strategies to control pests while minimizing environmental impact.

Question 29

Why is the involvement of humans an important component of agroecosystems? Discuss the role of human activities in shaping and managing agroecosystems.

Answer 29

The involvement of humans in agroecosystems is essential because humans play a central role in creating, managing, and shaping these ecosystems. Human activities, such as selecting crop varieties, applying pesticides, and implementing agricultural practices, directly influence the structure, function, and productivity of agroecosystems. By understanding the relationship between human activities and agroecosystem dynamics, it is possible to develop sustainable and efficient agricultural systems.

Question 30

what are the typical components if agriecosystem?

Answer 30

Involvement of men.
* Uniform crop-plant population.
* Weed communities.
* Animal communities (including insects).
* Microbiotic communities.
* Physical environment.

Question 31

Fill in the blanks:
a. __________ is the branch of applied ecology that deals with pest management in agroecosystems.
b. __________ factors limit the biotic potential of an organism.
c. The quantity and quality of ________ plays an important role in the survival, distribution, and reproduction of insects.
d. Natural enemies of insects include predators, parasites, and __________.
e. __________ is an abiotic factor that influences the induction of diapause in insects.

Answer 31

Fill in the blanks:
a. Pest management is the branch of applied ecology that deals with pest management in agroecosystems.
b. Environmental resistance factors limit the biotic potential of an organism.
c. The quantity and quality of food/nutrition plays an important role in the survival, distribution, and reproduction of insects.
d. Natural enemies of insects include predators, parasites, and pathogens.
e. Photoperiod is an abiotic factor that influences the induction of diapause in insects.

Multiple Choice:
a. d) i, ii, iii, iv, v
b. c) Competition

Question 32

Discuss the importance of ecological studies in pest control. How can understanding the interrelationships between organisms in a population and community help in developing effective pest management strategies

Answer 32

The importance of ecological studies in pest control lies in understanding the complex interactions between organisms in the ecosystem. By studying these relationships, researchers and pest managers can gain insights into the population dynamics, behaviors, and vulnerabilities of pests and their natural enemies. This knowledge helps in developing effective pest management strategies that are ecologically sustainable and minimize the use of harmful chemical pesticides. For example, understanding the role of natural enemies in controlling pest populations can lead to the implementation of biological control methods. Additionally, ecological studies aid in identifying ecological factors that influence pest outbreaks, such as changes in habitat, climate, or agricultural practices. Overall, ecology provides a holistic approach to pest management by considering the ecological context in which pests and their interactions occur.

Question 33

Explain the concept of balance of nature in the context of agroecosystems. How do human activities, such as monoculture and the use of high-yielding varieties, disrupt the natural balance and lead to pest outbreaks? Provide examples to support your answer.

Answer 33

The concept of the balance of nature in agroecosystems refers to the natural equilibrium and stability that exists in a functioning ecosystem. When humans introduce agroecosystems, which are human-made systems designed for agriculture, the balance of nature is disrupted. Monoculture, the cultivation of a single crop over large areas, and the use of high-yielding varieties create uniform crop-plant populations, which can lead to an imbalance in the ecosystem. The absence of biodiversity and the lack of natural predators or competitors for pests can result in pest outbreaks. For example, the absence of natural enemies in a monoculture system can allow pests to multiply rapidly, causing damage to the crops.

Human activities also disrupt the balance of nature by using large amounts of fertilizers, pesticides, and irrigation. These practices can create favorable conditions for pests, such as an abundance of food and a lack of natural enemies. The disruption of the natural balance leads to an increase in pest populations and the need for intensive pest management measures.

In agroecosystems, pests are not considered ecological aberrations but rather a response of natural forces aiming to restore the balance. Pest outbreaks act as a counterforce to human-induced changes, highlighting the importance of understanding ecological principles and implementing sustainable pest management practices that work in harmony with the ecosystem.

Question 34

a. In agroecosystems, pests are not ecological aberrations but rather a result of the __________ forces that react against human-induced changes.
b. Biotic potential is determined by an organism’s rate of reproduction and its __________ size.
c. __________ are abiotic factors that can limit the population growth of insects.
d. __________ competition occurs between individuals of the same species.
e. __________ is a density-dependent biotic factor that can affect insect populations

Answer 34

Fill in the blanks:
a. counteractive
b. litter
c. Abiotic factors
d. Intraspecific
e. Competition

Question 35

Which of the following is a density-dependent factor in pest population regulation?
a. Temperature
b. Rainfall
c. Competition
d. Atmospheric pressure

Biotic factors in an ecosystem are also known as:
a. Density-dependent factors
b. Density-independent factors
c. Abiotic factors
d. Climatic factors

Which of the following is an example of commensalism in an agroecosystem?
a. Trichogramma parasitizing Helicoverpa eggs
b. Aphids and ants mutually benefiting each other
c. Telonomus beneficiens attached to rice stem borer Scirphaga incertulus
d. Ladybird beetles preying on aphids

Which of the following is a density-independent factor limiting the population growth of insects?
a. Food availability
b. Competition
c. Predation
d. Temperature fluctuations

The primary role of pathogens in pest management is to:
a. Compete with pests for resources
b. Prey on pests and reduce their population
c. Parasitize pests and eventually kill them
d. Introduce genetic modifications in pests to control their reproduction

Answer 35

Which of the following is a density-dependent factor in pest population regulation?
Answer: c. Competition

Biotic factors in an ecosystem are also known as:
Answer: a. Density-dependent factors

Which of the following is an example of commensalism in an agroecosystem?
Answer: c. Telonomus beneficiens attached to rice stem borer Scirphaga incertulus

Which of the following is a density-independent factor limiting the population growth of insects?
Answer: d. Temperature fluctuations

The primary role of pathogens in pest management is to:
Answer: c. Parasitize pests and eventually kill them

Question 36

Fill in the blanks:

________ is the ability of a population to propagate under ideal environmental conditions.
In agroecosystems, ___________ factors can include temperature, rainfall, and humidity.
The interplay between biotic and abiotic factors determines the _________ of an organism.
Interspecific competition occurs between ___________ species.
Pathogens such as fungi and bacteria can cause disease in insects and reduce their ___________.

Answer 36

Biotic potential is the ability of a population to propagate under ideal environmental conditions.
In agroecosystems, abiotic factors can include temperature, rainfall, and humidity.
The interplay between biotic and abiotic factors determines the carrying capacity of an organism.
Interspecific competition occurs between different species.
Pathogens such as fungi and bacteria can cause disease in insects and reduce their population.

Question 37

The balance of nature in an ecosystem is altered when:
a. Humans introduce new species into the ecosystem
b. Insects become resistant to pesticides
c. The population of natural enemies increases
d. Environmental conditions become more favorable for pests

The biotic potential of an organism is influenced by:
a. Predation pressure
b. Genetic diversity
c. Climate change
d. Availability of resources

The primary role of predators in pest management is to:
a. Control the population of prey species
b. Compete with pests for resources
c. Parasitize pests and eventually kill them
d. Introduce genetic modifications in pests to control their reproduction

Abiotic factors such as temperature and rainfall are examples of:
a. Density-dependent factors
b. Density-independent factors
c. Biotic factors
d. Climatic factors

The role of parasites in pest management is to:
a. Prey on pests and reduce their population
b. Compete with pests for resources
c. Parasitize pests and eventually kill them
d. Introduce genetic modifications in pests to control their reproduction

Answer 37

The balance of nature in an ecosystem is altered when:
Answer: a. Humans introduce new species into the ecosystem

The biotic potential of an organism is influenced by:
Answer: b. Genetic diversity

The primary role of predators in pest management is to:
Answer: a. Control the population of prey species

Abiotic factors such as temperature and rainfall are examples of:
Answer: b. Density-independent factors

The role of parasites in pest management is to:
Answer: c. Parasitize pests and eventually kill them