Pt6 Flashcards
(10 cards)
Describe the tundra biome.
The tundra biome is characterized as a treeless or marshy plain, featuring permafrost, which is permanently frozen soil that limits plant growth.
Explain the significance of permafrost in the tundra.
Permafrost is significant in the tundra as it is permanently frozen soil that starts just below the surface, severely limiting the types of plants that can grow in this environment.
Define ecological succession.
Ecological succession is the set of changes in community composition that occur over time in a new or disturbed community.
Explain the significance of climax communities in ecological succession.
A climax community is the stable community at the final stage of succession, representing a balanced ecosystem that remains relatively unchanged until disrupted.
Do ecological succession processes occur after natural disasters?
Yes, ecological succession processes occur after natural disasters, such as the Yellowstone fires, where the community composition changes over time.
How does primary succession differ from secondary succession?
Primary succession occurs in lifeless areas where soil has not yet formed, while secondary succession takes place in areas where a disturbance has destroyed an existing community but left the soil intact.
Describe the general trends observed in succession.
Succession shows trends such as an increase in biomass over time, an increase in the number and proportion of longer-lived species, and increased species diversity.
Explain the significance of biodiversity in communities.
Biodiversity is significant as more diverse communities tend to be more productive, although the role of diversity in community stability is less clear.
Define succession in ecological terms.
Succession refers to the process of change in the species structure of an ecological community over time.
How does succession affect biomass in an ecosystem?
Succession leads to an increase in biomass over time as ecosystems develop and mature.
