REN2200 - EXAM

Question 1

M1 (summary) - Ecology is the study of _________?

Answer 1

Relationships between living organisms and living and non-living factors in the environment. It deals with the distribution and abundance of living organisms, their inter-relationships and relationships to physical and chemical environments.

Question 2

M1 (summary) - Explanation is a _____?

Answer 2

Search for knowledge in the pure scientific tradition, possibly involving proximal or ultimate explanations

Question 3

M1 (summary) - Prediction is an _____?

Answer 3

Attempt to determine what may happen to an organism, population, community or ecosystem in a given circumstance.

Question 4

M1 (summary) - Ecological hierarchy is an extension of _____?

Answer 4

Biological complexity (organisation), which provides a framework for studying organisms and the environment.

Question 5

M1 (summary) - What are the 3 common underlying themes in ecology?

Answer 5

i) Unity: fundamental similarity of living organisms
ii) Diversity: Variability in form structure
iii) Evolution: Provides explanation for why processes occur in biological world.

Question 6

M1 (summary) - What are the 7 basic steps in the scientific method?

Answer 6

i) Observation
ii) Question
iii) Null hypothesis
iv) Design
v) Experiment
vi) Analysis
vii) Conclusions

Question 7

M1 (summary) - What is fitness?

Answer 7

The measure of an organisms ability to produce viable offspring - stronger offspring are the result of individuals with higher fitness (leading to natural selection).

Question 8

M1 (summary) - What is adaptation?

Answer 8

Any heritable trait that aids survival or reproduction. It is the result of natural selection acting on differing fitness).

Question 9

M1 (summary) - What are the 3 types of selection operating on phenotypic characters?

Answer 9

i) Directional
ii) Stabilising
iii) Disruptive

Question 10

M1 (summary) - Fill in the blanks:
Reproductive isolation of _____ of the same species can result in the development of a new species (_____) due to _____ or ______operating on an isolated population.

Answer 10

Reproductive isolation of populations of the same species can result in the development of a new species (speciation) due to natural selection or genetic drift operating on an isolated population.

Question 11

M1 (summary) - When divergence occurs simultaneously across a number of populations and species, it may result in _______?

Answer 11

Adaptive radiation

Question 12

M1 (summary) - What is convergent evolution?

Answer 12

It occurs when members of distantly related species occupy similar niches and resemble each other, due to evolutionary forces.

Question 13

M1 (summary) - What is coevolution?

Answer 13

A change in the genetic composition of one species in response to a genetic change in another. It describes reciprocal evolutionary influences.

Question 14

M2 (summary) - Most species occupy what region of geographical areas?

Answer 14

Small regions. All species are limited to a definable geographical range.

Question 15

M2 (summary) - Which Law’s state that a species’ distribution will be limited by a specific factor or combination of factors, which represent the critical environmental limits to survival and reproduction?

Answer 15

i) Liebig’s Law of the Minimum

Question 16

M2 (summary) - Tolerance ranges alter with _____?

Answer 16

Natural selection and adaptation

Question 17

M2 (summary) - Whose rule states that polar species have larger geographic ranges than most subtropical species?

Answer 17

Rapoports rule

Question 18

M2 (summary) - What kind of dispersal are species usually well adapted for?

Answer 18

Local dispersal. Local distribution is rarely limited by failure to disperse.

Question 19

M2 (summary) - What is a key limit to broader distribution?

Answer 19

Dispersal barriers.

Question 20

M2 (summary) - Habitat selection may be the result of:

Answer 20

i) A range of behavioural decisions at multiple spatial scales.
ii) Increased relative fitness of organisms in one habitat over another.

Habitat selection is unlikely to limit geographic range for a majority of species.

Question 21

M2 (summary) - Globally, what are the primary limitations of the distributions of plants and animals?

Answer 21

Temperature and moisture

Question 22

M2 (summary) - Locally, what are the primary limitations of the distributions of plants and animals?

Answer 22

Light, fire, pH and other chemical and physical factors

Question 23

M2 (summary) - Is global warming expected to impact the geographical ranges of species?

Answer 23

Yes, as they’re currently limited by moisture and temperature.

Question 24

M2 (summary) - Is the a positive or negative relation between distribution and abundance? Why?

Answer 24

Positive, as widespread species tend to be more abundant than those with limited geographic ranges.

Question 25

What is a population and why is their study important?

Answer 25

A group of animals or plants of the same species occupying a defined space. Understanding and managing pest and disease outbreaks as well as endangered and beneficial species.

Question 26

M3 (summary) - How can we class population attributes?

Answer 26

i) Primary - relate to populations spatial structure (ie distribution, density and dispersion) ii) Secondary - describe the makeup of individuals which comprise population, such as sex ratio, age distribution, dispersal of individuals, social attributes (behaviour) and genetic make up.

Question 27

M3 (summary) - What is population growth dependent on?

Answer 27

i) Immigration and emigration | ii) Natality and mortality

Question 28

M3 (summary) - Life tables summarise by age the ______ and _______ of individuals in a population, and can be either cohort or time-specific.

Answer 28

Life tables summarise by age the survivorship and fecundity of individuals in a population, and can be either cohort or time-specific.

Question 29

M3 (summary) - What are survivorship curves?

Answer 29

Graphical representations of survival over the lifespan of a species.

Question 30

M4 (summary) - Population growth can be modelled as either ______-______ or ______-______.

Answer 30

Population growth can be modelled as either density-dependent or density-independent.

Question 31

M4 (summary) - What do density-independent population growth models assume?

Answer 31

Only birth and death influence population growth, and that resources are infinite. Under these assumptions, population growth will grow exponentially if birth rate > death rate.

Question 32

M4 (summary) - Environmental resistance is the ____________?

Answer 32

Sum total of factors which tend to limit population growth

Question 33

M4 (summary) - Density-dependent population growth models factor in a 'K' of the environment, related to environmental resistance. What is 'K'?

Answer 33

Carrying Capacity (K)

Question 34

M4 (summary) - What kind of growth curve does density-dependent population growth result in?

Answer 34

Sigmoidal

Question 35

M4 (summary) - What are some factors that can contribute to environmental resistance?

Answer 35

Climate, living places, food, parasites, predators, pathogens and social interactions. These can be categorised as density-dependent or density-independent.

Question 36

M5 (summary) - List each of the types of interactions among species and whether they are positive / negative interactions.

Answer 36

i) Commensalism: +, 0 ii) Mutualism: +, + iii) Amensalism -, 0 iv) Predation: +, - v) Competition: -, -

Question 37

M5 (summary) - What are the three types of mutualistic interactions?

Answer 37

i) Trophic mutualism ii) Defensive mutualism iii) Dispersive mutualism

Question 38

M5 (summary) - What does the evolutionary theory predict about mutualism?

Answer 38

That it will evolve where the benefits of mutualism exceed the costs. Keeler's model expect mutualism to evolve and persist in a population when mutualistic individuals (including successful and unsuccessful ones) have higher fitness than non-mutualistic individuals.

Question 39

M6 (summary) - _____ is beneficial to one organism and detrimental to the other, and can include herbivory and parasitism.

Answer 39

Predation

Question 40

M6 (summary) - Which 2 factors affect what prey predators choose to pursue

Answer 40

i) Dietary preferences | ii) Prey abundance

Question 41

M6 (summary) - Optimal foraging theory provides a fundamental platform for ________?

Answer 41

Interpreting and predicting foraging behaviour of all animals

Question 42

M6 (summary) - What does the diet width model describe?

Answer 42

It mathematically describes the problem faced by an optimal forager when deciding whether to expand its diet width to include a particular prey item. It also predicts that quick handlers but slow searchers should eat a broader variety of prey, while good searchers but poor handlers should be diet specialists.

Question 43

M6 (summary) - What are 3 types of functional responses that predators can exhibit to prey density?

Answer 43

i) Type 1 - constant rate of consumption up to a limit ii) Type 2 - rate of consumption rises rapidly with prey density , but decreases at high density iii) Type 3 - rate of consumption rises rapidly with prey density after a brief lag but decreases at high prey densities.

Question 44

M6 (summary) - What does the Marginal Value Theorem describe?

Answer 44

The point at which optimal foragers should leave aggregations of prey and move to another aggregation.

Question 45

M6 (summary) - What do the ideal free distributions describe?

Answer 45

The way in which animals distribute themselves amongst patches of resources. The number of individual animals that will aggregate in various patches is proportional to the amount of resources available in each.

Question 46

M6 (summary) - What does the Lotka-Volterra model describe?

Answer 46

The idealised relationship between predator and prey populations in a two-species system.

Question 47

M6 (summary) - Environmental disturbance causes the model to exhibit erratic cycles which lead to system extinction, but _____ and ______ functional responses and the provision of prey refugia can result in stable cycles.

Answer 47

Environmental disturbance causes the model to exhibit erratic cycles which lead to system extinction, but type 2 and type 3 functional responses and the provision of prey refugia can result in stable cycles.

Question 48

M7 (summary) - What are the driving forces of competitive interactions between individuals?

Answer 48

i) Limited resource availability | ii) Similarities in species resource requirements

Question 49

M7 (summary) - Competition for a resource may lead to a reduction in_______:?

Answer 49

i) Individual survivorship ii) Individual growth and reproduction iii) Population growth

Question 50

M7 (summary) - Competitive interactions can be divided into_____:?

Answer 50

i) Interspecific competition | ii) Intraspecific competition

Question 51

M7 (summary) - What are the 2 types of competition?

Answer 51

i) Resource competition - Organisms of the same or different species compete for a common limited resource ii) Interference competition - An organism causes direct harm to another in seeking a resource

Question 52

M7 (summary) - The Lotka-Volterra model describes competition in terms of its results. What is an example of this?

Answer 52

The impacts on abundance of two species.

Question 53

M7 (summary) - What does Tilman's model of competition predict?

Answer 53

The outcome of competition as a function of resource availability and rate of consumption

Question 54

M7 (summary) - In natural communities, the effects of competition are difficult to identify definitively. What have lab experiments indicated about competition in simple ecosystems?

Answer 54

They have demonstrated competition.

Question 55

M7 (summary) - What are equilibrium and non-equilibrium models of communities?

Answer 55

i) Equilibrium: Competition is the overriding structural force and coexistence occurs as a result of resource partitioning and niche differentiation. ii) Non-equilibrium: Focus on the importance of climatic fluctuation and habitat patchiness

Question 56

M8 (summary) - What is a community?

Answer 56

An identifiable assemblage (predictable association) of interacting species in space and time.

Question 57

M8 (summary) - What is the continuum concept?

Answer 57

Views communities as units that exhibit gradual replacement of species along some environmental gradient.

Question 58

M8 (summary) - Collective properties of communities include:

Answer 58

i) Species interactions ii) Species richness and diversity iii) Community biomass

Question 59

M8 (summary) - Emergent properties relate to:

Answer 59

i) Community structure ii) Complexity iii) Stability iv) Change

Question 60

M8 (summary) - What is the difference species richness and diversity?

Answer 60

Species richness is the list of species present in a community. Diversity is an indicative measure of community evenness in relation to abundances of component species.

Question 61

M8 (summary) - What is relative abundance?

Answer 61

An informative representation of community equitability that provides information on the sharing / partitioning of resources.

Question 62

M8 (summary) - What is community development?

Answer 62

The change (appearance and disappearance) of species over time, synthesised.

Question 63

M8 (summary) - What is succession?

Answer 63

Non-seasonal, directional and continuous patterns of colonisation and extinction in community development, and implies temporal changes in conditions, resources and biotic interactions.

Question 64

M8 (summary) - What is primary succession and secondary succession?

Answer 64

Primary succession: Community development on sites on which there is no previous influence of organisms. Secondary succession: Community re-development on previously occupied sites.

Question 65

M8 (summary) - 4 models of succession relate to the role of earlier successional stages to the development of later stages. What are they?

Answer 65

i) Facilitation ii) Inhibition iii) Tolerance iv) Random colonisation

Question 66

M8 (summary) - What is the climax community?

Answer 66

A stable, self-perpetuating community in equilibrium with the physical environment.

Question 67

M9 (summary) - Communities are largely organised by processes of _______, _______ &_________?

Answer 67

Competition, predation and mutualism.

Question 68

M9 (summary) - What are the two primary models of community organisation? Explain.

Answer 68

i) Equilibrium model: Focuses on community stability and biotic coupling ii) Non-equilibrium model: Focuses on stochastic effects and species independence

Question 69

M9 (summary) - What are food webs?

Answer 69

Length of food chains, predator-prey ratios and connectance. They remain relatively constant regardless of the number of species involved.

Question 70

M9 (summary) - What are species guilds?

Answer 70

Competitive webs of similar species exploiting a common resource base.

Question 71

M9 (summary) - What are keystone species?

Answer 71

Species that play a fundamentally important role in community organisation.

Question 72

M9 (summary) - If a communities recovery times exceed the frequency of disturbance, then they are not:

Answer 72

In equilibrium

Question 73

M9 (summary) - Disturbances, caused by ______ / ______ factors can lead to variability in the physical environment and temporal / spatial variability in communities.

Answer 73

Physical and biotic factors

Question 74

M9 (summary) - What happens when communities exhibit multiple stable states?

Answer 74

Disturbances move them from one state to another

Question 75

M10 (summary) - What is ecosystem productivity?

Answer 75

A collective property of ecosystems and refers to rate of generation of biomass in an ecosystem

Question 76

M10 (summary) - What is ecosystem metabolism?

Answer 76

A measure of the balance between the input of energy / use of materials and the losses resulting from their use for growth, metabolism and reproduction by all component organisms.

Question 77

M10 (summary) - Trophic levels in the food web are sustained by _____ energy processed and fixed by green plants through the process of _____.

Answer 77

Trophic levels in the food web are sustained by solar energy processed and fixed by green plants through the process of photosynthesis.

Question 78

M10 (summary) - What is plants overall photosynthetic ratio?

Answer 78

Between 3% and 6% of solar radiation

Question 79

M10 (summary) - What limits primary production in: a) Aquatic environments? b) Terrestrial environments?

Answer 79

a) Nutrient availability (usually N and Fe) | b) Temperature, moisture and nutrients (usually N and P)

Question 80

M10 (summary) - Where does energy fixed by green plants go?

Answer 80

Herbivores (3-4% in forest ecosystems, rest to detritus; >20% in aquatic ecosystems) or detritivores.

Question 81

M10 (summary) - How do homeotherms maintain body temperature?

Answer 81

Over 98% of ingested energy maintains body temperature. Poikilotherms (ie insects) are much more efficient.

Question 82

M10 (summary) - Secondary production is limited by ______ production and the ______ law of thermodynamics.

Answer 82

Secondary production is limited by primary production and the second law of thermodynamics (no energy transfer is completely efficient).

Question 83

M10 (summary) - What sort of ecosystems tend to have higher nutrient use efficiency?

Answer 83

Low-nutrient ecosystems.

Question 84

M10 (summary) - What are some human alterations of nutrient cycles?

Answer 84

i) Acid rain (N and S cycles) ii) Nutrient depletion (harvesting / removal of vegetation) iii) Nutrient addition (eutrophication)

Question 85

M10 (summary) - Will ecosystems responses to global warming be uniform and easy to predict?

Answer 85

No. They will be complex and varied. Predicting ecosystem response requires an integrated multidisciplinary approach involving monitoring, experimentation and modelling.

Question 86

M11 (summary) - What does the Farquhar model describe?

Answer 86

The response of photosynthesis to atmospheric CO2 concentration

Question 87

M11 (summary) - Biological systems possess a degree of natural adaptive capacity. What is one key driver as to why contemporary climate change may threaten biodiversity?

Answer 87

The extraordinarily rapid rate of climate change

Question 88

M11 (summary) - How does ocean acidification threaten coral?

Answer 88

It is associated with Co2 enrichment, and reduces calcification of corals, leading to bleaching events.

Question 89

M12 (summary) - What type of population growth is displayed by humans?

Answer 89

Exponential

Question 90

M12 (summary) - What are the 5 main human-induced factors leading to extinction of species?

Answer 90

i) Habitat loss ii) Fragmentation iii) Exotic species iv) Over-exploitation of animals v) Pollution / climate change

Question 91

M12 (summary) - What is extinction?

Answer 91

The irrevocable loss or elimination of species and is a normal ecological process (when not influenced by humans)

Question 92

M12 (summary) - What are the main factors that make species vulnerable to extinction?

Answer 92

i) Small populations ii) Species with a narrow geographic range iii) Habitat specialists Other factors include: iv) Populations that fluctuate significantly v) Species in symbiotic relationships vi) Large-bodied species vii) Species with low reproductive rates viii) Species with poor dispersal rates ix) Island species

Question 93

M12 (summary) - What is the small population paradigm?

Answer 93

Knowing what is causing small populations to go extinct. These include stochastic factors such as genetic, demographic and environmental stochasticity.

Question 94

M12 (summary) - What is the declining population paradigm?

Answer 94

Knowing what processes are causing populations to become small. These include systematic (deterministic) processes acting on the population life history and structure.

Question 95

M12 (summary) - What is the extinction vortex?

Answer 95

The problem faced by small populations through effects of reduction in genetic variability and demographic process where a reduction in the size of the population will lead to loss of genetic variability and further reductions in population size.

Question 96

M12 (summary) - What is the patch-corridor matrix?

Answer 96

A suitable model for conceptualising and representing the elements in a categorical map pattern.

Question 97

The maximum reproductive capacity of a population if resources are unlimited is called the Select one: a. cohort b. biotic potential c. carrying capacity d. survivorship e. community

Answer 97

biotic potential

Question 98

See the cyclic population fluctuations of lynx and snowshoe hare below. If we consider the logistic equation of lynx, dN/dt = rN(K-N)/K, which factor best accounts for the effect on the snowshoe hare population? a. r b. rN c. dt d. K e. N

Answer 98

K

Question 99

The generalisation that there is a positive relationship between distribution and abundance, such that abundant species have wide geographical ranges is known as …. Select one: a. Lieberg’s Law b. Darwin’s Rule c. Rapoport’s Rule d. Ecological specialisation model e. Hanski’s Rule

Answer 99

Hanski’s Rule

Question 100

Which of the following best describes natural selection? a. individuals in a species which have highest fitness will contribute more significantly to next generation b. None of the options c. the longer-term processes shaping the genetic make-up of organisms and therefore their abilities to adapt to changes d. the measure of ability of individual to produce viable offspring and contribute to future generations e. the fundamental explanation as to why certain species patterns or behaviour exist

Answer 100

a. individuals in a species which have highest fitness will contribute more significantly to next generation

Question 101

Proximal explanations are those that seek to describe evolutionary mechanisms and are essentially speculative in nature. Select one: True False

Answer 101

False

Question 102

Which factor(s) will change a population's genetic structure? Select one: a. Dispersal b. Change in the age structure c. The natality to mortality ratio d. Recombination of alleles e. None of the other

Answer 102

Recombination of alleles

Question 103

Which curve best describes survivorship in elephants? Select one: a. A b. B c. C d. D e. E

Answer 103

A

Question 104

What causes a Logistic growth curve to level off? Select one: a. the population stops reproducing b. the age pyramid of the population changes c. the population reaches its environmental carrying capacity d. individuals emigrate out of the population e. mortality decreases in the population

Answer 104

the population reaches its environmental carrying capacity

Question 105

Under appropriate conditions, adaptation can lead to speciation (the development of a new species). Select one: True False

Answer 105

True

Question 106

Rapoport's Rule states that Select one: a. geographic ranges reflect the competitive interactions between species b. generalist species exploit a wide range of food/habitat resources which are abundant and widespread c. geographic ranges increase from poles to equator d. there is a positive relationship between distribution and abundance e. geographic ranges decrease from poles to equator

Answer 106

geographic ranges decrease from poles to equator

Question 107

In the following, define the population attribute in terms of primary or secondary attribute. behaviour age structure dispersal

Answer 107

Behaviour: secondary Age structure: secondary Dispersal: secondary

Question 108

A cohort life table is an age-specific summary of the mortality rates operating on a cohort of individuals. Select one: True False

Answer 108

True

Question 109

In the following, match the type of physiological state in relation to temperature (endo-/ectothermy) in animals to the appropriate response. limited activity in unfavourable temperatures lower energetic demands metabolism primary source of body heat

Answer 109

limited activity in unfavourable temperatures = ecothermy lower energetic demands = ectothermy metabolism primary source of body heat = endothermy

Question 110

In the following, match the level of ecological organisation (‘ecological hierarchy’) to the best description. assemblages of interacting species all members of a particular species complex network of organisms and environment indidual organism

Answer 110

assemblages of interacting species → community, all members of a particular species → population, complex network of organisms and environment → ecosystem, indidual organism → individual

Question 111

Which of the following is not considered a possible explanation of why distribution and abundance may be correlated as described by Hanski’s Rule. Select one: a. local population model b. competition model c. sampling model d. ecological specialisation model

Answer 111

competition model

Question 112

Ecologists call the phenomenon "speciation" when two populations of a single species become separated for a long period of time and, as a result, two species eventually form as these two subgroups respond to different ecological pressures. Select one: True False

Answer 112

True

Question 113

What are the two approaches considered in the study of population dynamics? Select one: a. none of the choices b. graphical approach and mathematical analysis c. dynamics analysis and attribute analysis d. key factor analysis and experimental analysis e. natality and mortality analysis

Answer 113

key factor analysis and experimental analysis

Question 114

The three types of selection acting on phenotypic characters in populations are: Select one: a. sympatric, parapatric and coevolution selection b. directional, stabilizing and disruptive selection c. directional, destabilizing and disturbance selection d. adaptation, evolution and natural selection e. sympatric, parapatric and allopatric selection

Answer 114

directional, stabilizing and disruptive selection

Question 115

While population size increases towards carrying capacity: Select one: a. birth rate increases b. death rate increases c. both birth rate and death rate increase d. none of choices are true e. death rate decreases

Answer 115

death rate increases

Question 116

Match the following terms relating to modes of dispersal with the appropriate definition Secular dispersal Diffusion Jump dispersal

Answer 116

Secular dispersal → the geographic range expansion over evolutionary time-scales with concurrent evolutionary change due to natural selection processes, Diffusion → the gradual spread of a species through suitable habitat over several generations, Jump dispersal → the rapid movement of organisms over large distances, usually across unsuitable habitat

Question 117

The mechanism whereby some organisms may alter the environment to prevent other species from using it, typically with toxins or antibiotics, is known as …. Select one: a. allelopathy b. predation c. exclusion d. succession e. interference

Answer 117

allelopathy

Question 118

Natality is defined as the rate of increase of females in a population. Select one: True False

Answer 118

False

Question 119

The pattern of which dispersion is described by the Poisson distribution? Select one: a. clumped distribution b. random distribution c. regular distribution d. none of the other

Answer 119

random distribution

Question 120

Which population is in the process of decreasing? Select one: a. II b. I and II c. I d. II and III e. III

Answer 120

II

Question 121

The potential for population growth under ideal conditions is called: Select one: a. sustainable growth threshold b. Intrinsic rate of natural increase c. exponential growth d. density-independent growth rate

Answer 121

Intrinsic rate of natural increase

Question 122

Coevolution occurs when: Select one: a. the pressures of convergent evolution mean that two unrelated species have similar attributes b. a trait of species A and species B evolved in response to changes environmental conditions over a longer period of time c. a trait of species A evolved in response to a trait of species B, which evolved in response to the trait in species A d. environmental pressures are such that two closely related species diverge e. a trait of species A evolved in response to a trait of species B, which evolved in response to the trait in species C

Answer 122

a trait of species A evolved in response to a trait of species B, which evolved in response to the trait in species A

Question 123

Population attributes that describe the make-up of individuals, such as sex ratio, age distribution, social attributes and genetic make-up are referred to as primary attributes Select one: True False

Answer 123

False

Question 124

A Type III survivorship curve is most likely to be found in: Select one: a. An invertebrate species b. An equilibrial species c. A species that is territorial d. An opportunistic species e. A species that undergoes periodic molting

Answer 124

An opportunistic species

Question 125

Which of the following graphs illustrates the population growth curve of single yeast growing in a large flask of ideal medium (with unlimited availability of resources) at optimum temperature over a 24-hour period? Select one: a. a b. b c. c d. d e. e

Answer 125

e (be aware graph may not be labelled the same)

Question 126

Diapause (dormancy) is best defined as: Select one: a. none of the choices b. large annual migration in response to seasonal conditions and availability of food resources c. over-wintering in favourable refugia d. condition of lowered body temperature and inactivity to reduce metabolic rate and energy demand e. resting state in which water is chemically bound or reduced to prevent freezing or overheating

Answer 126

resting state in which water is chemically bound or reduced to prevent freezing or overheating

Question 127

In the illustration below, which of the images represents sympatric speciation? Select one: a. III b. I, II and III c. None of the choices d. I e. II

Answer 127

II

Question 128

With reference to the following diagram, indicate which mortality rate (dx) curve (I, II or III) best corresponds to a Type 3 survivorship curve in populations. Select one: a. I and II b. III c. I d. II e. II and III

Answer 128

II

Question 129

Evolution refers to changes in any attribute of a population over time Select one: True False

Answer 129

True

Question 130

Which of the following is not an element of the scientific method? Select one: a. anecdotal observations b. hypothesis c. theory d. observation e. communication with other scientists

Answer 130

anecdotal observations

Question 131

In the following, match the mechanism for speciation with the best description. reduced flow of genes to a population entering a new habitat population is isolated by a geographic barrier and diverge reproductive isolation occurs within the range of a population

Answer 131

reduced flow of genes to a population entering a new habitat → parapatric speciation, population is isolated by a geographic barrier and diverge → allopatric speciation, reproductive isolation occurs within the range of a population → sympatric speciation

Question 132

Coevolution describes the reciprocal evolutionary influences organisms may have on each other Select one: True False

Answer 132

True

Question 133

The generalisation that geographic range sizes decrease as one moves from polar to equatorial latitudes, such that range sizes are smaller in the tropics is known as …. Select one: a. Darwin’s Rule b. Lieberg’s Law c. Rapoport’s Rule d. Hanski’s Rule e. Ecological specialisation model

Answer 133

Rapoport's Rule

Question 134

Which of the following best describes the general nature of ecology? Select one: a. Hierarchical, complex, qualitative, variance b. Maniacal, complex, quantitative, variable c. Hierarchical, descriptive, quantitative, variation d. Hierarchical, experimental, value-laden, predictive e. Hierarchical, complex, quantitative, variable

Answer 134

Hierarchical, complex, quantitative, variable

Question 135

Distribution in ecology refers to the Select one: a. the random movement of animals throughout their habitat b. none of the other options c. the limits imposed on an organism by the environment d. spatial pattern of abundance e. the temporal pattern in dispersal

Answer 135

spatial pattern of abundance

Question 136

Population is a group of organisms of the same species occupying a defined space. Select one: True False

Answer 136

True

Question 137

``` An ecologist recorded 435 white oaks (Quercus alba) in an one hectare plot and 267 red oaks (Quercus rubra) on the same plot. What was the ecologist comparing? Select one: a. range b. carrying capacity c. density d. dispersion e. quadrats ```

Answer 137

density

Question 138

"Time specific" life tables sample individuals born within the same time interval. Select one: True False

Answer 138

False

Question 139

In the following, match the mode of dispersal to the best description. geographic range expansion over evolutionary time-scales gradual spread through suitable habitat over generations rapid movement of individuals over large distances

Answer 139

geographic range expansion over evolutionary time-scales → secular dispersal, gradual spread through suitable habitat over generations → diffusion, rapid movement of individuals over large distances → jump dispersal

Question 140

With reference to the following diagram, indicate which survivorship curve (I, II or III) best corresponds to a Type 3 relationship in populations. survivorship Select one: a. III b. II and III c. I d. II e. I and II

Answer 140

I (be aware may be labelled diferently)

Question 141

What is the population growth pattern in the figure termed? Select one: a. exponential growth b. density-dependent growth c. geometric growth d. logistic growth e. density-independent decline

Answer 141

Geometric growth (staircase)

Question 142

The mortality rate of organisms following a type III survivorship curve is Select one: a. unrelated to age b. fairly constant throughout life c. lower after the organisms become established d. higher in post-reproductive years

Answer 142

lower after the organisms become established

Question 143

Match the following terms relating to population sex ratios with the most appropriate definition/explanation monogamy promiscuous polygamy

Answer 143

monogamy → lasting bond formed between one male and one female, promiscuous → mating at large with a population, without lasting pair bonding, polygamy → more than one mate per individual

Question 144

A cosmopolitan species is one that Select one: a. is only found in urban areas b. maintains high population numbers in the face of disturbance c. overlaps with the distribution of others d. has a restricted geographic ranges isolated to a small area e. has an extensive geographic range stretching over several continents

Answer 144

has an extensive geographic range stretching over several continents

Question 145

The points labelled (2) on the following figure representing environmental tolerance limits for an organism are: Select one: a. zones where species is absent b. physiological optimum c. the upper and lower tolerance limits d. optimum points e. zones of physiological stress

Answer 145

the upper and lower tolerance limits

Question 146

In terms of models of population growth, a model that predicts one exact outcome given certain (known) initial conditions is known as a stochastic (probabilistic) model. Select one: True False

Answer 146

False

Question 147

The tropical to polar (latitudinal) gradient in species diversity is where there is greater diversity in the tropics that at higher latitudes. True or false?

Answer 147

True

Question 148

Ecesis in primary succession is .... Select one: a. associated increases in soil N (mineralisation) b. the process of species elimination by stronger competitors c. the successful establishment of a plant or animal species in a habitat d. the initial exposure of new substrate e. the dispersal of propagules from surrounding areas

Answer 148

the successful establishment of a plant or animal species in a habitat

Question 149

Clements proposed an 'individualist' concept of an ecological community where organisms behave as individuals. Select one: True False

Answer 149

False

Question 150

Which description about ideal free distributions is incorrect? (choose one) Select one: a. Profitable patches will attract more predators and thus decline more quickly in profitability b. all predators are assumed to be equal c. all patches end up with the same profitability d. Predators tend to leave less profitable patches and move to more profitable patches e. none of the others

Answer 150

none of the others

Question 151

The idea of gradual species replacement along environmental gradients is known as: Select one: a. an ecotone b. primary succession c. the continuum concept of communities d. community replacement concept e. the redundancy hypothesis

Answer 151

c. the continuum concept of communities

Question 152

The figure below shows the minimum requirement of species A (blue) and species B (green) for resources 1 and 2 in Tilman's competition model. The dark red vectors in the figure respectively show the rate of resource depletion for species A and B. In which zone will species A and B coexist? Select one: a. 1 b. 3 c. 2 d. none of the others

Answer 152

2

Question 153

Match the following interactions and the effects between two species Commensalism Amensalism Parasitism

Answer 153

Commensalism → benefits one species and has no harm to the other species, Amensalism → neutral to one species but does harm to the other species, Parasitism → benefits one species but does harm to the other species

Question 154

Lotka-Volterra's model addresses the mechanism (resource depletion) that affects populations Select one: True False

Answer 154

False

Question 155

Which of the following pairs of terms and descriptions is correct? (choose one) Select one: a. Parasitism / The interaction of parasites typically results in the death of the host b. Competition / An interaction usually only found among herbivores c. Pollination / Herbivores feed on the leaves and flowers of plants d. Mutualism / Bacteria that make vitamins or assist in digestion in the human intestine e. Predation / Most preys have little defense against predators

Answer 155

d. Mutualism / Bacteria that make vitamins or assist in digestion in the human intestine

Question 156

Many plants have nitrogen-fixing bacteria that live in their root nodules. This is an example of … Select one: a. commensalism b. none of the choices c. competition d. ecological communities e. mutualism

Answer 156

mutualism

Question 157

A predator-prey response where the rate of consumption by the predator rises rapidly with prey density but decreases at high prey densities is .... Select one: a. a type II response b. uncommon c. a type I response d. a type III response e. interference competition

Answer 157

type II response

Question 158

In the redundancy model describing inter-connections within communities, most species within a community have little to do with each other and a proportion of species and ecological processes are redundant. True or false?

Answer 158

true

Question 159

The assumptions of optimal foraging theory include: Select one: a. all of the others b. the experimental circumstances used to test optimal foraging theory reflect the natural situation c. high fitness is primarily associated with high energy intake d. the past optimal behaviour of the predator is the same as the present optimal behaviour

Answer 159

all of the others

Question 160

In the rivet model describing inter-connections within communities, each species in a community is part of what holds the network together and loss of any species may have cascading effects on other species. Select one: True False

Answer 160

True

Question 161

In a grassland, when tall grasses shade out short, shade-intolerant species, ecologists call this interaction … Select one: a. predation b. habitat fragmentation c. commensalism d. mutualism e. competition

Answer 161

Competition

Question 162

Which type(s) of functional responses exhibit density-dependence at high levels of prey numbers? Select one: a. Type II b. Type III c. Type I d. Type II and Type III e. Type I and Type III

Answer 162

Type II and type III

Question 163

Two species of birds found on two different islands in an archipelago have identically-sized beaks and eat similar seeds. What would you predict about the evolution of beak size if you transplanted both of these two species to a new island that was uninhabited by similar birds? Select one: a. One of the species would go extinct. b. There would be no change in the beaks of either species. c. The beak sizes of both species would diverge from each other and from their original sizes. d. The beak size of one of the species would change, becoming either larger or smaller on average.

Answer 163

The beak sizes of both species would diverge from each other and from their original sizes.

Question 164

Which description about equilibrium models of stable communities is not true? (choose one) Select one: a. competition is the overriding structuring force of the community b. there is a stable equilibrium point for population densities of coexisting species c. besides competition, no other species interactions are considered d. none of the others e. coexistence occurs as a result of resource partitioning and niche differentiation

Answer 164

besides competition, no other species interactions are considered

Question 165

Non-equilibrium theories of community organization focus on the importance of disturbance and environmental heterogenity, e.g. climate fluctuation and habitat patchness. Select one: True False

Answer 165

'True'

Question 166

Species richness can be best described as … Select one: a. a measure of evenness in a community b. a measure of gamma diversity across ecosystems c. relative abundance of species in a community or ecosystem d. a count or list of species present in a community e. an indicator of dominance within communities

Answer 166

a count or list of species present in a community

Question 167

The two models that describe the potential importance of inter-connections within communities are: Select one: a. the non-directional (cyclic) and directional (succession) models b. the rivet and redundancy models c. the collective and emergent models d. the Clemenstian and Gleasonian models e. the facilitation and inhibition models

Answer 167

the rivet and redundancy models

Question 168

Non-directional change in communities is known as 'succession'. Select one: True False

Answer 168

False

Question 169

Which description about competition is wrong? Select one: a. competition can decrease the population growth b. competition is driven by limited resource availability and similarities in species' resource requirement c. competition does not happen between organism whose activities are temporally partitioned d. there is no competition for superabundant resources e. competition can decrease individual survivorship, growth, and reproduction

Answer 169

competition does not happen between organism whose activities are temporally partitioned

Question 170

Secondary succession is the redevelopment of a community starting with organic components remaining at a site from a previous occupation. Select one: True False

Answer 170

True

Question 171

In the figure below showing Lotka-Volterra predator-prey functional responses match the figure (a, b or c) with the appropriate response.

Answer 171

(a) → type II (b) → type III (c) → type I

Question 172

The figure below shows the minimum requirement of species A (blue) and species B (green) for resources 1 and 2 in Tilman's competition model. What will be the outcome of competition between species A and species B in this case? Select one: a. both species coexist in a stable equilibrium b. both species coexist in an unstable equilibrium c. species A becomes extinct d. species B becomes extinct

Answer 172

Species B becomes extinct (See p159 of module guide to check, as have got these wrong)

Question 173

Competition is an interaction between individual organisms as a result of a shared requirement of one or more resources. Select one: True False

Answer 173

True

Question 174

Match the following interactions and the effects between two species Competition Predation Mutualism

Answer 174

Competition → detrimental to both species, Predation → benefits one species but does harm to the other species, Mutualism → benefits both species

Question 175

In terms of rank abundance, species-poor homogeneous communities tend to demonstrate what type of characteristic distribution? Select one: a. log-normal b. none of the choices c. linear d. broken stick e. geometric

Answer 175

geometric

Question 176

The two schools of ecological thought regarding the concept of a community that emerged in the 19th and early 20th centuries were: Select one: a. the facilitation and inhibition schools b. the collective and emergent schools c. the Clemenstian and Gleasonian schools d. the non-directional (cyclic) and directional (succession) schools e. the rivet and redundancy schools

Answer 176

the Clemenstian and Gleasonian schools

Question 177

Which of the following is not considered a direct measure of biological structure in communities? Select one: a. all are considered direct measures of biological structure b. rank abundance c. diversity d. species richness e. resilience

Answer 177

resilience

Question 178

``` A new kitten is added to a home with an established older cat. The older cat is observed to gobble up its food as well as that of the younger cat. This behaviour is best described as Select one: a. mutualism b. interspecies competition c. resource competition d. interference competition e. amensalism ```

Answer 178

interference competition

Question 179

Traditionally, the four main characteristics of communities recognised are: growth form and physical structure, diversity, relative abundance and dominance; and, trophic structure. Select one: True False

Answer 179

True

Question 180

In terms of rank abundance, the majority of ecological communities demonstrate what type of characteristic distribution? Select one: a. linear b. log-normal c. broken stick d. geometric e. none of the choices

Answer 180

log normal

Question 181

Which predator functional response does the Lynx show to its major prey, the snowshoe hare? Select one: a. Type II b. Type I c. none of the others d. Type III e. I and III

Answer 181

Type II

Question 182

According to non-equilibrium theories, what is most likely to be the major force to shape the community organization? Select one: a. Disturbance b. Primary productivity c. Predation d. Dispersal e. Competition

Answer 182

Disturbance

Question 183

Which of the following is not an example of a symbiotic relationship between organisms? Select one: a. parasitism b. all of the other choices are examples of a symbiotic relationship c. competition d. mutualism e. commensalism

Answer 183

competition

Question 184

Which of the following schematics illustrates the tolerance model of secondary succession? Select one: a. (c) b. none of the choices c. (b) d. (d) e. (a)

Answer 184

(a)

Question 185

Which of the following is not considered a significant factor in determining diversity patterns in natural systems? (choose one) Select one: a. climate b. history c. local extinction d. productivity e. competition

Answer 185

Local extinction

Question 186

Which factors tend to prompt a predator to take a next-most-profitable prey that is immediately available? Select one: a. the next-most-profitable prey has high energy content b. searching for another prey is time consuming c. all of the choices d. the handling time of this next-most-profitable prey is short

Answer 186

all of the choices

Question 187

The monoclimax theory states that every region has ultimately only one stable endpoint determined by climate toward which all communities are developing. Select one: True False

Answer 187

True

Question 188

Commensalism is the biotic interaction between two species where Select one: a. there is a negative effect on both interacting species b. both interacting species benefit c. both species suffer a reduction in productivity d. one species derives a benefit from the relationship and the second species is unaffected by it e. one species is consumed by another

Answer 188

one species derives a benefit from the relationship and the second species is unaffected by it

Question 189

Optimal foraging theory predicts that foragers will seek to optimize the net energy return from feeding by minimising costs of searching and handling prey and maximizing energy intake. Select one: True False

Answer 189

True

Question 190

Acacia trees and ants have a well developed mutualism where ants provide protection from insect herbivores and the tree provides a food source for the ant. Which biological properties of acacia tree is the least likely to promote selection favouring mutualism? Select one: a. there is high herbivory pressure in the habitat of acacia tree b. the accommodation and food prepared by acacia tree are attractive to ants c. the investment needed to attract ants is low d. acacia tree has very effective chemical defense against herbivory e. ants are efficient in terms of defensing acacia tree from herbivory

Answer 190

acacia tree has very effective chemical defense against herbivory

Question 191

The current view of communities is close to the individualistic concept of Gleason. Select one: True False

Answer 191

True

Question 192

The monoclimax theory states that many different climax communities can exist in a given area due to a range of controlling factors. Select one: True False

Answer 192

False

Question 193

Both algae and fungi can live independently in favourable environments. Why is the mutualism between algae and fungus in lichen considered obligate? Select one: a. because neither of them can survive independently in the adverse environment which lichen can live b. because the fungus needs the help of algae for dispersal in the adverse environment in which lichen live c. none of the other answers d. because algae need to protection of fungus from dehydration e. because algae provide fungi food while fungus provide algae nutrients

Answer 193

because neither of them can survive independently in the adverse environment which lichen can live

Question 194

A pioneer community in relation to community development is ... Select one: a. a community exhibiting change towards the climax stage b. the initial seral stage c. each distinct community in a sequence d. a unit of succession e. the final seral stage

Answer 194

the initial seral stage

Question 195

In the following schematic illustrating the complex successional sequence associated with secondary succession, what is the stage labelled (a)? Select one: a. climax stage b. seral stages c. sub-climax stage d. pioneer seral stage e. dynamic equilibrium

Answer 195

pioneer seral stage

Question 196

Which of the following is not considered a main characteristic of communities contributing to community structure? (choose one) Select one: a. trophic structure b. relative abundance c. diversity d. growth form e. population life history

Answer 196

population life history

Question 197

In the following possible landscape configurations, which is better from a conservation perspective? large vs small reserves fragmented vs contiguous reserves clustered vs dispersed

Answer 197

large vs small reserves → large, fragmented vs contiguous reserves → contiguous, clustered vs dispersed → clustered

Question 198

Match the following terms with appropriate descriptions in relation to the patch-corridor-matric model describing landscapes corridor matrix patch

Answer 198

corridor → link between patches, matrix → dominant land use or vegetation type surrounding patch, patch → areas of suitable habitat

Question 199

Which of the following changes has not been observed in relation the cryosphere? Select one: a. increased volcanic activity in Greenland b. sea level rises of about 1.7 mm during the period 1900-1990 c. sea level rises of about 3 mm per year since 1993 d. reduction in glaciers and Greenland ice sheet cover e. reduction in snow cover and Arctic sea ice cover

Answer 199

Increase volcanic activity in Greenland

Question 200

In marine ecosystems, light is a principle factor limiting primary production at depth. Select one: True False

Answer 200

True

Question 201

The addition of nutrients such as phosphorus and nitrogen to freshwater systems from wastes generated by humans and resultant increases in algal concentrations is known as … Select one: a. putrification b. precipitation c. eutrofication d. oligotrophism e. nutrification

Answer 201

Eutrophification

Question 202

Only about 1% of the solar energy reaching the Earth is converted into net primary productivity by plants and algae. Select one: True False

Answer 202

True

Question 203

The greenhouse effect is a natural process that warms the Earth by the heat trapped in the atmosphere by water vapour and gases. Select one: True False

Answer 203

True

Question 204

Photosynthetic efficiency is … Select one: a. the proportion of food energy taken into the gut of consumers and which is assimilated across the gut wall b. he efficiency at which light energy is captured by plants and converted to organic forms c. the rate of production of new biomass by all heterotrophs d. a measure of the amount of activity by living organisms within any trophic level e. total amount of energy fixed by plants through photosynthesis minus the energy lost to respiration

Answer 204

he efficiency at which light energy is captured by plants and converted to organic forms

Question 205

Based on population growth rates since the 1800s, what is the approximate doubling time for the global human population? Select one: a. 130 years b. 40 years c. 60 years d. 20 years e. 100 years

Answer 205

40 years

Question 206

A key source (reservoir) for the nutrient phosphorus in terms of global nutrient cycles is: Select one: a. calcium phosphate minerals weathered from rock b. wastes form animals c. plants fixing phosphorus d. release by decomposers e. atmosphere deposition

Answer 206

calcium phosphate minerals weathered from rock

Question 207

The energetics hypothesis predicts shorter food chains in less predictable habitats. Select one: True False

Answer 207

False

Question 208

The dynamic stability hypothesis predicts shorter food chains in less predictable habitats. Select one: True False

Answer 208

True

Question 209

System productivity is a collective property of ecosystems Select one: True False

Answer 209

True

Question 210

In the following diagram representing the stages of fragmentation identified by Forman, what is the component labelled (IV)? fragmentation Select one: a. fragmentation b. perforation c. shrinkage/attrition d. dissection

Answer 210

Perforation (bottom right, 2 white squares within green)

Question 211

The essential nutrients, nitrogen and phosphorus, are often limiting primary production in oceans. Select one: True False

Answer 211

True

Question 212

The irrevocable loss or elimination of a species is best described as … Select one: a. pollution b. species extinction c. environmental degradation d. evolution e. an ecological footprint

Answer 212

Species extinction

Question 213

The release of sulphur dioxide (SO2) into the atmosphere through the burning of fossil fuels can lead to acid rain. Select one: True False

Answer 213

True

Question 214

Which of the following is not an advantage in the use of guilds? Select one: a. species’ niche within the community becomes more apparent b. species are grouped according to their ecological role within the community rather than their taxonomic identity c. analysis of community structure is refined d. keystone species are easily recognised e. communities can be compared on the basis of specific functional groups

Answer 214

keystone species are easily recognised

Question 215

In the diagram below, representing the reaction of photosynthesis, what is the component labelled (2)? photosynthesis reaction Select one: a. chlorophyll b. carbohydrate (sugar) c. carbon dioxide d. water e. light energ

Answer 215

Light energy (after 12H2O)

Question 216

Which of the following best describes ‘chains of extinction’? Select one: a. secondary extinctions due to loss of closely-associated species b. extinctions caused by species introductions c. a domino effect of extinctions across a landscape due to habitat loss d. loss of entire food chains e. none of the choices

Answer 216

secondary extinctions due to loss of closely-associated species

Question 217

A freshwater lake that is characterised by high primary production and little light penetration can be described as … Select one: a. dynamic b. oligotrophic c. polytrophic d. eutrophic e. static

Answer 217

Eutrophic

Question 218

Gross secondary productivity is …… Select one: a. the rate of energy fixation (CO2 conversion to organic carbon) by photosynthesis b. the amount of assimilated energy derived from the previous trophic level c. total amount of energy fixed by plants through photosynthesis (GPP) minus the energy lost to respiration d. the rate of production of new biomass by all heterotrophs e. a measure of the amount of activity by living organisms within any trophic level

Answer 218

the amount of assimilated energy derived from the previous trophic level

Question 219

Which of the following theories argues that community structure is predominantly controlled by competition for limiting resources? Select one: a. classical competition theory b. competition-spatial patchiness theory c. habitat selection-competition theory d. competition-predation theory e. none of the choices

Answer 219

classical competition theory

Question 220

The primary factors limiting net primary productivity in terrestrial environments are … Select one: a. temperature, evaporation and nutrients b. soil nutrients and biotic interactions c. evaporation and temperature d. none of the choices e. light, temperature and moisture

Answer 220

light, temperature and moisture

Question 221

In the diagram below, representing the reaction of cellular respiration, what is the component labelled (4)? respiration reaction Select one: a. water b. energy c. carbohydrate d. carbon dioxide e. chlorophyll

Answer 221

energy

Question 222

Island biogeography theory predicts smaller islands contain a higher diversity of species due to their isolation Select one: True False

Answer 222

False'.

Question 223

``` Correct Mark 1.00 out of 1.00 Not flaggedFlag question Question text Which of the following theories recognises environmental patchiness in resource availability, different stable equilibria and variation in species composition between patches? ``` Select one: a. competition-predation theory b. habitat selection-competition theory c. none of the choices d. classical competition theory e. competition-spatial patchiness theory

Answer 223

competition-spatial patchiness theory

Question 224

The equilibrium model of community organisation holds that communities are relatively constant in composition and resilient to disturbances. Select one: True False

Answer 224

True

Question 225

According to the IUCN Red Lists for threatened species, habitat loss has been described as the main threat to 85% of species listed. Select one: True False

Answer 225

True

Question 226

In the following diagrams illustrating stable states in communities, which exhibits a ‘robust’ system? stability graphs Select one: a. I, II and III b. I c. II and III d. II e. III

Answer 226

II

Question 227

In the following graph of colonisation and extinction of species on islands, what is 'S'? colonisation-extinction Select one: a. the mean number of species b. steady-state number of species c. local community stability d. secondary productivity of the system e. coefficient of species stability

Answer 227

steady-state number of species

Question 228

Approximately, what proportion of solar energy from the sun is reflected directly back into space? Select one: a. three-quarters b. all solar energy readches the Earth's surface c. two-thirds d. 20% e. one-third

Answer 228

One third

Question 229

Only about 3-4% of primary production in forests is consumed by herbivores. Select one: True False

Answer 229

True

Question 230

In the following diagram representing the stages of fragmentation identified by Forman, what is the component labelled (III)? fragmentation Select one: a. fragmentation b. dissection c. perforation d. shrinkage/attrition

Answer 230

shrinkage / attrition

Question 231

In the diagram below, representing the reaction of photosynthesis, what is the component labelled (3)? photosynthesis reaction Select one: a. chlorophyll b. carbohydrate (sugar) c. light energy d. carbon dioxide e. water

Answer 231

Carbohydrates (sugar)

Question 232

Match the following greenhouse gases with their approximate contribution to the greenhouse effect water vapour carbon dioxide methane ozone

Answer 232

water vapour → 36-70%, carbon dioxide → 9-26%, methane → 4-9%, ozone → 3-7%

Question 233

Match the following terms to the most appropriate description in relation to community stability resilience constancy persistence

Answer 233

resilience → ability of a system to recover from disturbance events, constancy → ability of a system to maintain size, persistence → a system that demonstrates a stable composition in time (i.e. resistance to alteration)

Question 234

Which of the following are the two principle models of community organisation recognised? Select one: a. none of the choices b. equilibrium and non-equilibrium models c. equilibrium and calibration models d. abundance and distribution models e. diversity and distribution models

Answer 234

equilibrium and non-equilibrium models

Question 235

Background extinction is ... Select one: a. all of the choices b. the rate of species extinction that goes on regardless of human population growth impacts c. the significantly higher rate of species extinction experienced at various periods in geological history d. the base rate of species extinction over most of the history of life on Earth e. the rate of enhanced species extinction due to human impacts

Answer 235

the base rate of species extinction over most of the history of life on Earth

Question 236

Secondary productivity is …… Select one: a. the rate of energy fixation (CO2 conversion to organic carbon) by photosynthesis b. the rate of production of new biomass by all heterotrophs c. the proportion of food energy taken into the gut of consumers and which is assimilated across the gut wall d. total amount of energy fixed by plants through photosynthesis (GPP) minus the energy lost to respiration e. a measure of the amount of activity by living organisms within any trophic level

Answer 236

the rate of production of new biomass by all heterotrophs

Question 237

Which of the following reactions best describes photosynthesis? Select one: a. carbon dioxide + water + light energy (in the presence of chlorophyll) gives a sugar (carbohydrate) + oxygen b. carbon dioxide + oxygen (in the presence of chlorophyll) gives a sugar (carbohydrate) + water + energy c. a sugar + oxygen+ light energy (in the presence of chlorophyll) gives carbon dioxide + water d. (a) water + oxygen + light energy (in the presence of chlorophyll) gives a sugar (carbohydrate) + carbon dioxide e. (a) carbon dioxide + chlorophyll gives a sugar (carbohydrate) + oxygen + water

Answer 237

carbon dioxide + water + light energy (in the presence of chlorophyll) gives a sugar (carbohydrate) + oxygen

Question 238

The net primary productivity of the ocean is roughly twice that of the land. Select one: True False

Answer 238

False

Question 239

Since 1900, global temperatures have risen by about how much? Select one: a. 1 degree Celsius b. 6 degrees Celsius c. global temperature have not risen d. 4 degrees Celsius e. 8 degrees Celsius

Answer 239

1 degree

Question 240

Net primary productivity (NPP) is …… Select one: a. the rate of energy fixation (CO2 conversion to organic carbon) by photosynthesis b. a measure of the amount of activity by living organisms within any trophic level c. the rate of production of new biomass by all heterotrophs d. total amount of energy fixed by plants through photosynthesis (GPP) minus the energy lost to respiration e. the proportion of food energy taken into the gut of consumers and which is assimilated across the gut wall

Answer 240

total amount of energy fixed by plants through photosynthesis (GPP) minus the energy lost to respiration

Question 241

Dominance in communities is most probably the result of a combination of competitive exclusion, physiological tolerances and/or predation pressure on potential competitors. Select one: True False

Answer 241

True

Question 242

Which of the following is not considered a major threat to biodiversity? Select one: a. over-exploitation b. urban expansion c. pollution d. species introductions e. habitat loss and fragmentation

Answer 242

Urban expansion

Question 243

The current equilibrium model for community organisation incorporates competition, predation and spatial heterogeneity Select one: True False

Answer 243

True

Question 244

Which of the following reactions best describes the biochemical reaction of respiration? Select one: a. a sugar + oxygen gives carbon dioxide + water + energy b. carbon dioxide + oxygen (in the presence of chlorophyll) gives a sugar (carbohydrate) + water + energy c. carbon dioxide + water + light energy (in the presence of chlorophyll) gives a sugar (carbohydrate) + oxygen d. (a) carbon dioxide + chlorophyll gives a sugar (carbohydrate) + oxygen + water e. (a) water + oxygen + light energy (in the presence of chlorophyll) gives a sugar (carbohydrate) + carbon dioxide

Answer 244

a sugar + oxygen gives carbon dioxide + water + energy

Question 245

Match the following major theories of community organisation under equilibrium and their description competition-predation theory classical equilibrium theory competition-spatial patchiness theory

Answer 245

competition-predation theory → both predation and competition are key biological interactions governing community organisation, classical equilibrium theory → community structure is primarily controlled by competition for limiting resources, competition-spatial patchiness theory → recognises environmental patchiness in resource availability and different stable equilibria and variation in species composition between patches

Question 246

Neighbourhood (local) stability within communities refers to … Select one: a. where a system is unable to return to its former position following a disturbance b. where there are no disturbances acting on the community c. where a system is able to return to its former position following a small temporary disturbance d. where a system is able to return to its former position following a large disturbance e. the degree to which a variable (e.g. species abundance or diversity) is changed following a perturbation

Answer 246

where a system is able to return to its former position following a small temporary disturbance

Question 247

Which of the options best provides a suitable working definition of ecology? Select one: a. the scientific study of nature and the interactions that determine the distribution & abundance of organisms b. the scientific study of the relationships between living organisms and the living (biotic) and non-living (abiotic) factors in the environment c. the study of the genetic relationships between organisms d. the study of organisms and their immediate environment

Answer 247

the scientific study of the relationships between living organisms and the living (biotic) and non-living (abiotic) factors in the environment

Question 248

Which is not an assumption of mark-recapture method? Select one: a. the survival chance of marked individuals would not be affected, at least in short term b. the probability of catching a marked and unmarked individual is the same c. the species must have a random distribution in the studied area d. the marked individuals would thoroughly mix with other members of the population

Answer 248

the species must have a random distribution in the studied area

Question 249

In the following, match the type of physiological state in relation to temperature (endo-/ectothermy) in animals to the appropriate response. higher energetic demands enable activity in unfavourable temperatures environment primary source of body hea

Answer 249

higher energetic demands → endothermy, enable activity in unfavourable temperatures → endothermy, environment primary source of body heat → ectothermy

Question 250

Small group sizes is most likely to be associated with which habitat? Select one: a. savannah b. grassland c. woodland d. all of the options e. forest

Answer 250

Forest

Question 251

A trout cannot live in a slow, warm stream because the oxygen concentration in the water is too low. In this case, the oxygen concentration is … Select one: a. none of the options b. a limiting factor c. a niche d. a range of tolerance e. a delineating factor

Answer 251

A limiting factor

Question 252

A Type II survivorship curve is characterised by: Select one: a. high mortality in middle life b. none of the choices c. roughly constant mortality rate regardless of age d. greatest mortality is experienced early on in life, with relatively low rates of death for those surviving the early period e. high survival in early and middle life, followed by a rapid decline in survivorship in later life

Answer 252

roughly constant mortality rate regardless of age

Question 253

The three types of speciation identified are: Select one: a. endopatric, palleopatric and synpatric speciation b. allopatric, parapatric and sympatric speciation c. directional, stabilizing and disruptive speciation d. elastic, monopatric and polypatric speciation e. adjusted, competitive and coevolution speciation

Answer 253

allopatric, parapatric and sympatric speciation

Question 254

In the illustration below, which of the images represents directional selection? selection Select one: a. I b. I and II c. II d. I and III e. III

Answer 254

II (may be different in different pic. II represents a curve partially shaded on one side)

Question 255

Generally we can expect an organism to be most abundant where conditions for its growth and reproduction are at an optimum Select one: True Falseq

Answer 255

True

Question 256

Which factor(s) may cause the sex ratio of some species deviate from 1:1? Select one: a. one gender is more costly to produce b. one gender have a lower chance of reproducing itself c. polygamy d. all of above

Answer 256

all of above

Question 257

During exponential growth, a population always Select one: a. grows by thousands of individuals b. loses some individuals to emigration c. cycles through time d. grows at its maximum per capita rate e. quickly reaches its carrying capacity

Answer 257

grows at its maximum per capita rate

Question 258

It is possible in ecology to have prediction without extensive explanation (understanding) Select one: True False

Answer 258

True

Question 259

In the following, match the level of ecological organisation (‘ecological hierarchy’) to the best description. assemblages of interacting species indidual organism that part of the Earth inhabited by organisms all members of a particular species

Answer 259

assemblages of interacting species → community, individual organism → individual, that part of the Earth inhabited by organisms → biosphere, all members of a particular species → population

Question 260

Good environment conditions will increase the average fitness of individuals in a population. Select one: True False

Answer 260

False

Question 261

Water is generally considered the most important factor affecting the ecology of terrestrial organisms Select one: True False

Answer 261

True

Question 262

A population of koalas has an annual per capita birth rate of 0.06 and an annual per capita death rate of 0.02. Estimate the number of individuals added to (or lost from) a population of 1000 individuals in one year. Select one: a. 80 individuals added b. 40 individuals added c. 120 individuals added d. 20 individuals lost e. 60 individuals added

Answer 262

40 individuals added

Question 263

In the following, match the type of selection operating on phenotypic characters with the best description. selection favours phenotypes at two extremes with intermediate types becoming less common in gene pool narrowing of phenotypes where phenotypes near the mean are fitter phenotypes at one extreme of range is selected against

Answer 263

selection favours phenotypes at two extremes with intermediate types becoming less common in gene pool → disruptive selection, narrowing of phenotypes where phenotypes near the mean are fitter → stabilising selection, phenotypes at one extreme of range is selected against → directional selection

Question 264

In the following, define the population attribute in terms of primary or secondary attribute. population density sex ratio spatial structure

Answer 264

population density → primary, sex ratio → secondary, spatial structure → primary

Question 265

Which group mentioned below is not a population? Select one: a. Koalas (Phascolarctos cinereus) in Australian Zoo b. All human beings (Homo sapiens) in the world c. The only black swan (Cygnus atratus) couple living in the pond of Japanese Garden at USQ d. All kangaroos species (Macropus spp.) living on Kangaroo Island

Answer 265

All kangaroos species (Macropus spp.) living on Kangaroo Island

Question 266

hich of the following is not a part of an organism's environment? Select one: a. all the plants and animals that the organism interacts with during its lifetime b. temperature c. climate d. the flow of energy necessary to maintain the organism e. all of these factors are part of the organism's environment

Answer 266

all of these factors are part of the organism's environment

Question 267

With reference to the following diagram, indicate which mortality rate (dx) curve (I, II or III) best corresponds to a Type 1 survivorship curve in populations. mortalility Select one: a. I and II b. II and III c. I d. II e. III

Answer 267

III

Question 268

'r-strategy' (r-selection) organisms tend to have Select one: a. stable natality and mortality b. few offspring c. sigmoid growth curves (like logistic curve) d. little parental care e. none of the other

Answer 268

Little parental care

Question 269

Which of the following is not a plant adaptation to low water availability Select one: a. reduced evaporative water loss by having small leaves b. enhanced water uptake by rapid root growth c. torpor d. the storage of water within special structures e. mycorrhizal associations

Answer 269

torpor

Question 270

The number of individuals that a particular place can support indefinitely is called the Select one: a. survivorship b. cohort c. community d. carrying capacity e. biotic potential

Answer 270

carrying capacity

Question 271

What is the mathematical expression of population growth rate? Select one: a. dK/dt b. N c. dN d. dN*dt e. dN/dt

Answer 271

dN/dt

Question 272

An ecosystem is best described as: Select one: a. an assemblage of species and the non-living environment b. all members of a particular species c. an assemblage of species d. that part of earth & atmosphere inhabited by living organisms e. an assemblage of biotic communities

Answer 272

an assemblage of species and the non-living environmen

Question 273

K-selected species ([k-strategy) tend to reproduce early in their life history. Select one: True False

Answer 273

'False'.

Question 274

Convergent evolution occurs when: Select one: a. members of distantly related species occupy similar ecological niches and resemble each other due to similar evolutionary forces b. environmental pressures are such that two closely related species diverge c. a trait of species A and species B evolved in response to changes environmental conditions over a longer period of time d. a trait of species A evolved in response to a trait of species B, which evolved in response to the trait in species A e. two groups of a population diverge and each group follows an independent and gradual process of evolutionary change

Answer 274

members of distantly related species occupy similar ecological niches and resemble each other due to similar evolutionary forces

Question 275

Shelford's Law of Tolerance states that Select one: a. factors in combination impact on the rate of biological processes in ecosystems b. organisms have an optimum range in terms of resource use c. energy requirements for organisms will be lowest at night d. the rate of biological processes is limited by that factor in least amount relative to its requirements e. the distribution of a species will be controlled by that environmental factor for which the species has the narrowest range of tolerance

Answer 275

the distribution of a species will be controlled by that environmental factor for which the species has the narrowest range of tolerance

Question 276

In ecology, the process of more successful individuals surviving and reproducing larger numbers of offspring than unsuccessful individuals can reproduce is called … Select one: a. natural selection b. predation c. mutualism d. none of the choices e. speciation

Answer 276

natural selection

Question 277

With reference to the following diagram, indicate which survivorship curve (I, II or III) best corresponds to a Type 1 relationship in populations. survivorship Select one: a. II and III b. I and II c. III d. I e. II

Answer 277

II

Question 278

Which of the following best represents the ecological hierarchy in order of increasing ecological complexity? Select one: a. Population, Community, Landscape, Ecosystem, Biosphere b. Organism, Population, Landscape, Community, Ecosystem, Biosphere c. Organism, Population, Community, Landscape, Ecosystem, Biota d. Organism, Population, Community, Ecosystem, Landscape, Biosphere e. Molecules, Organelles, Cells, Tissues, Organs, Organ Systems, Individuals (Organisms)

Answer 278

Organism, Population, Community, Ecosystem, Landscape, Biosphere

Question 279

In the following, match the population attribute to the appropriate life strategy (r- or k-selected species). variable and unpredictable natality and mortality small body size late maturity and delayed reproduction long life span

Answer 279

variable and unpredictable natality and mortality → r-strategy, small body size → r-strategy, late maturity and delayed reproduction → k-strategy, long life span → k-strategy

Question 280

The distribution of populations is not influenced by which of the following? Select one: a. interactions with other species b. the species' limit to tolerance c. presence/ absence of suitable habitat conditions d. opportunities for dispersal e. the shape of survivorship curve of this species

Answer 280

the shape of survivorship curve of this species

Question 281

The hypothetico-deductive approach involves testing of hypotheses through deductive reasoning Select one: True False

Answer 281

True

Question 282

The zone labelled (3) on the following figure representing environmental tolerance limits for an organism is: Select one: a. zone of physiological stress b. upper tolerance limit c. optimum zone d. zone of lower tolerance e. zone where species is absent

Answer 282

optimum zone

Question 283

In the illustration below, which of the images represents allopatric speciation? speciation Select one: a. III b. II c. I d. I, II and III e. None of the choices

Answer 283

III

Question 284

In terms of models of population growth, a model that predicts one exact outcome given certain (known) initial conditions is known as a deterministic model. Select one: True False

Answer 284

True

Question 285

Match the following terms relating to evolution and adaptation with the most appropriate definition / explanation natural selection individuals in a species which have highest fitness will contribute more significantly to next generation any heritable trait which aids survival and/or reproduction in a particular environment long term process shaping the genetic make-up of populations

Answer 285

natural selection individuals in a species which have highest fitness will contribute more significantly to next generation → natural selection, any heritable trait which aids survival and/or reproduction in a particular environment → adaptation, long term process shaping the genetic make-up of populations → evolution

Question 286

Many plants have nitrogen-fixing bacteria that live in their root nodules. This is an example of … Select one: a. mutualism b. commensalism c. none of the choices d. competition e. ecological communities

Answer 286

Mutualism

Question 287

Lotka-Volterra's model addresses the mechanism (resource depletion) that affects populations Select one: True False

Answer 287

False

Question 288

There is little empirical support for the productivity hypothesis regarding patterns in species diversity Select one: True False

Answer 288

True

Question 289

Commensalism occurs when both species that interact are benefited and the relationship is obligatory Select one: True False

Answer 289

False

Question 290

In the redundancy model describing inter-connections within communities, most species within a community have little to do with each other and a proportion of species and ecological processes are redundant. Select one: True False

Answer 290

True

Question 291

Which type of functional responses can give rise to stable limit cycles of predator and prey populations? Select one: a. Type III b. Type I and Type III c. Type II d. Type I e. Type II and Type III

Answer 291

Type II and Type III

Question 292

In the following, match the types of interaction indicated by the following relationships. ephiphytes and host tree Algae and fungus that form lichen to colonize very adverse environment barnacles that attach to the whale for a free ride Oxpecker that eats ticks on giraffe

Answer 292

ephiphytes and host tree → commensalism, Algae and fungus that form lichen to colonize very adverse environment → mutualism, barnacles that attach to the whale for a free ride → commensalism, Oxpecker that eats ticks on giraffe → mutualism

Question 293

A 'seral stage' in relation to community development is ... Select one: a. the final seral stage b. the initial seral stage c. a unit of succession d. a community exhibiting change towards the climax stage e. each distinct community in a sequence

Answer 293

each distinct community in a sequence

Question 294

The figure below shows the minimum requirement of species A (blue) and species B (green) for resources 1 and 2 in Tilman's competition model. The dark red vectors in the figure respectively show the rate of resource depletion for species A and B. In which zone will species A and B coexist? Select one: a. 3 b. 2 c. none of the others d. 1

Answer 294

12

Question 295

Spatial patchiness and environmental complexity help to maintain the coexistence of predator and prey. Select one: True False

Answer 295

True

Question 296

What are the assumptions of Marginal Value Theorem? Select one: a. the prey will maximize the overall energy intake during foraging b. resources in a patch deplete over time c. the predator only hunts the optimum prey in the patch d. a and b e. a and c

Answer 296

a and b

Question 297

Which of the following schematics illustrates the tolerance model of secondary succession? Select one: a. (a) b. none of the choices c. (d) d. (c) e. (b)

Answer 297

a

Question 298

Marginal Value Theorem proposes that the optimal stay-time in a patch for a predator depends on the rate of energy extraction by the predator at the time it leaves the patch. Select one: True False

Answer 298

True

Question 299

Which predator functional response does the Lynx show to its major prey, the snowshoe hare? Select one: a. none of the others b. Type II c. Type III d. I and III e. Type I

Answer 299

Type II

Question 300

Optimal foraging theory predicts that foragers will seek to optimize the net energy return from feeding by minimising costs of searching and handling prey and maximizing energy intake. Select one: True False

Answer 300

True

Question 301

In a grassland, when tall grasses shade out short, shade-intolerant species, ecologists call this interaction … Select one: a. commensalism b. competition c. mutualism d. habitat fragmentation e. predation

Answer 301

Competition

Question 302

Non-directional change in communities is known as 'succession'. Select one: True False

Answer 302

False

Question 303

In terms of rank abundance, the majority of communities demonstrate a ‘broken-stick’ distribution. Select one: True False

Answer 303

False

Question 304

Which of the following is not an assumption of classic equilibrium theories to explain the role of competition in structuring communities? (choose one) Select one: a. environment is spatially and temporally homogeneous b. migration is unimportant c. the genetic structure of studied populations is stable d. inter-specific competition is the only important biological interaction e. resources are limiting

Answer 304

the genetic structure of studied populations is stable

Question 305

Amensalism is an interaction that is detrimental to one organism but beneficial to the other. Select one: True False

Answer 305

False

Question 306

Which factor is the least likely to lead to a lag in the increase of prey consumption rate at low prey density? Select one: a. prey's behaviour to search and use refugia b. prey has low reproduction rate at low density c. predator's low hunting efficiency due to the lack of practice d. predator may switch to alternative food sources e. predator's low searching efficiency due to the lack of search image

Answer 306

prey has low reproduction rate at low density

Question 307

Competition is an interaction between individual organisms as a result of a shared requirement of one or more resources. Select one: True False

Answer 307

True

Question 308

Non-equilibrium theories of community organization focus on the importance of disturbance and environmental heterogenity, e.g. climate fluctuation and habitat patchness. Select one: True False

Answer 308

True

Question 309

Match the following factors explaining broad diversity patterns with their associated hypothesis disturbance history productivity

Answer 309

disturbance → intermediate disturbance hypothesis, history → stability-time hypothesis, productivity →productivity hypothesis

Question 310

In the following schematic illustrating the complex successional sequence associated with secondary succession, what is the stage labelled (a)? Select one: a. seral stages b. sub-climax stage c. pioneer seral stage d. dynamic equilibrium e. climax stage

Answer 310

pioneer seral stage

Question 311

The competitive exclusion principle implies that Select one: a. Coexisting species cannot eat exactly the same things. b. Coexisting species can use the same resources. c. Coexisting species cannot have identical ecological interactions. d. Coexisting species cannot be closely related to one another. e. Coexisting species cannot be exactly the same size.

Answer 311

Coexisting species cannot have identical ecological interactions.

Question 312

Gause's competitive exclusion principle states that Select one: a. two species of approximately the same resource requirements are not likely to remain balance in numbers b. two species can not eat the same type of food c. if two species have very similar niche, one will out-compete the other d. a and c e. b and c

Answer 312

a and c

Question 313

Identify which type of mutualism the following relationships are mistletoe bird and grey mistletoe yellow-brown algae living in coral polyp ants and acacia trees

Answer 313

mistletoe bird and grey mistletoe → dispersive mutulism, yellow-brown algae living in coral polyp → trophic mutualism, ants and acacia trees → defensive mutualism

Question 314

Which statement is incorrect for diffuse competition? (choose one) Select one: a. Diffuse competition is indirect b. It means that it is difficult to measure the impact of one species on another. c. It means the effect of one species on another is generally weak d. Diffuse competition is the combined effect of competitive interactions with many species on a given species. e. It suggests that competition can occur between many species and rarely takes the form of exclusively pair-wise interactions

Answer 314

Diffuse competition is indirect

Question 315

In Huffaker's experiment, he found refugia for prey can stabilize cyclic predator-prey relationships. Select one: True False

Answer 315

True

Question 316

In the diagram below, representing the reaction of photosynthesis, what is the component labelled (2)? photosynthesis reaction Select one: a. carbohydrate (sugar) b. carbon dioxide c. water d. chlorophyll e. light energy

Answer 316

Light energy

Question 317

In the diagram below, representing the reaction of cellular respiration, what is the component labelled (1)? respiration reaction Select one: a. chlorophyll b. water c. energy d. carbon dioxide e. carbohydrate

Answer 317

Carbohydrate

Question 318

Gross secondary productivity is …… Select one: a. a measure of the amount of activity by living organisms within any trophic level b. total amount of energy fixed by plants through photosynthesis (GPP) minus the energy lost to respiration c. the amount of assimilated energy derived from the previous trophic level d. the rate of energy fixation (CO2 conversion to organic carbon) by photosynthesis e. the rate of production of new biomass by all heterotrophs

Answer 318

the amount of assimilated energy derived from the previous trophic level

Question 319

Which of the following are the two principle models of community organisation recognised? Select one: a. equilibrium and calibration models b. equilibrium and non-equilibrium models c. diversity and distribution models d. none of the choices e. abundance and distribution models

Answer 319

equilibrium and non-equilibrium models

Question 320

Photosynthetic efficiency is … Select one: a. he efficiency at which light energy is captured by plants and converted to organic forms b. total amount of energy fixed by plants through photosynthesis minus the energy lost to respiration c. a measure of the amount of activity by living organisms within any trophic level d. the proportion of food energy taken into the gut of consumers and which is assimilated across the gut wall e. the rate of production of new biomass by all heterotrophs

Answer 320

he efficiency at which light energy is captured by plants and converted to organic forms

Question 321

A freshwater lake that is characterised by high primary production and little light penetration can be described as … Select one: a. polytrophic b. static c. eutrophic d. oligotrophic e. dynamic

Answer 321

Eutrophic

Question 322

In the past 25 years, global temperatures have risen on average per decade by … Select one: a. 1 degrees Celsius b. global temperature have not risen c. 2 degrees Celsius d. 0.52 degrees Celsius e. 0.18 degrees Celsiu

Answer 322

0.18 degrees Celsius

Question 323

The ‘energetics hypothesis’ of Elton (1927) regarding the length of food chains in communities proposes that the length of food chains is limited by inefficiencies of energy transfer along the chain. Select one: True False

Answer 323

True

Question 324

Methane and nitrous oxides are in the highest concentrations among all natural greenhouse gases. Select one: True False

Answer 324

False

Question 325

Which of the following reactions best describes photosynthesis? Select one: a. carbon dioxide + oxygen (in the presence of chlorophyll) gives a sugar (carbohydrate) + water + energy b. (a) water + oxygen + light energy (in the presence of chlorophyll) gives a sugar (carbohydrate) + carbon dioxide c. (a) carbon dioxide + chlorophyll gives a sugar (carbohydrate) + oxygen + water d. a sugar + oxygen+ light energy (in the presence of chlorophyll) gives carbon dioxide + water e. carbon dioxide + water + light energy (in the presence of chlorophyll) gives a sugar (carbohydrate) + oxygen

Answer 325

carbon dioxide + water + light energy (in the presence of chlorophyll) gives a sugar (carbohydrate) + oxygen

Question 326

The irrevocable loss or elimination of a species is best described as … Select one: a. evolution b. species extinction c. an ecological footprint d. environmental degradation e. pollution

Answer 326

Species extinction

Question 327

Which of the following is not an advantage in the use of guilds? Select one: a. species are grouped according to their ecological role within the community rather than their taxonomic identity b. species’ niche within the community becomes more apparent c. keystone species are easily recognised d. communities can be compared on the basis of specific functional groups e. analysis of community structure is refined

Answer 327

keystone species are easily recognised

Question 328

Match the following mass extinction events with their occurrence Ordovician Devonian Cretaceous Permian

Answer 328

Ordovician → 440-450 million years ago, Devonian → ~360 million years ago, Cretaceous → ~65 million years ago, Permian → ~250 million years ago

Question 329

Net primary productivity (NPP) is …… Select one: a. the rate of energy fixation (CO2 conversion to organic carbon) by photosynthesis b. the rate of production of new biomass by all heterotrophs c. total amount of energy fixed by plants through photosynthesis (GPP) minus the energy lost to respiration d. a measure of the amount of activity by living organisms within any trophic level e. the proportion of food energy taken into the gut of consumers and which is assimilated across the gut wall

Answer 329

total amount of energy fixed by plants through photosynthesis (GPP) minus the energy lost to respiration

Question 330

Match the following in relation to the principles of community organisation equilibrium model non-equilibrium model

Answer 330

equilibrium model → focus is on community stability and biotic coupling, non-equilibrium model → focus is on stochastic effects and species independence

Question 331

A freshwater lake that is characterised by high light penetration but little primary productivity can be described as … Select one: a. dynamic b. oligotrophic c. eutrophic d. static e. polytrophic

Answer 331

oligotrophic

Question 332

Which of the following is not generally recognised as a factor limiting secondary productivity in grassland ecosystems Select one: a. spatial and temporal heterogeneity of plant/prey availability b. water availability c. all of these can limit secondary productivity d. nutrients critical to animal growth an reproduction e. plant/prey defences against herbivory/predation

Answer 332

all of these can limit secondary productivity

Question 333

Human activities add about the same amount of nitrogen to the biosphere as natural processes. Select one: True False

Answer 333

True

Question 334

Match the following predictions regarding the length of food chains in communities and the relevant hypothesis longer food chains in more productive habitats shorter food chains in less predictable habitats

Answer 334

longer food chains in more productive habitats → Elton’s (1927) energetics hypothesis, shorter food chains in less predictable habitats → dynamic stability hypothesis

Question 335

The equilibrium community model proposes that where physical conditions are relatively stable or vary in a predictable fashion … Select one: a. population processes will operate in a density-dependent fashion b. a community will be saturated with species c. all of the choices d. species composition and species abundances will be relatively constant in time

Answer 335

all of the choices

Question 336

System productivity is a collective property of ecosystems Select one: True False

Answer 336

True

Question 337

In the following possible landscape configurations, which is better from a conservation perspective? connected vs isolated high vs low edge ratio linear vs clustered

Answer 337

connected vs isolated → connected, high vs low edge ratio → low edge ratio (circle), linear vs clustered → clustered

Question 338

Which of the following theories argues that community structure is predominantly controlled by competition for limiting resources? Select one: a. habitat selection-competition theory b. classical competition theory c. competition-spatial patchiness theory d. none of the choices e. competition-predation theory

Answer 338

classical competition theory

Question 339

In the following diagram representing the extinction vortex, what is the component labelled (II)? extinction vortex Select one: a. reduction in geographic range b. higher mortality c. random genetic drift or inbreeding d. bottleneck e. reduction in fitness

Answer 339

random genetic drift or inbreeding

Question 340

In the following diagram representing the extinction vortex, what is the component labelled (III)? extinction vortex Select one: a. random genetic drift b. higher mortality c. inbreeding d. reduction in fitness e. reduction in geographic range

Answer 340

reduction in fitness

Question 341

Which of the following is not a major theory explaining community organisation under equilibrium conditions? Select one: a. competition-spatial patchiness theory b. classical competition theory c. none of the choices d. competition-predation theory e. habitat selection-competition theory

Answer 341

habitat selection-competition theory

Question 342

In the following diagram representing the stages of fragmentation identified by Forman, what is the component labelled (III)? fragmentation Select one: a. shrinkage/attrition b. fragmentation c. perforation d. dissection

Answer 342

shrinkage/attrition

Question 343

The following graph of colonisation and extinction of species on islands is a demonstration of which ecological theory? colonisation-extinction Select one: a. the theory of colonisation and extinction b. C-E theory c. island biogeography theory d. competitive exclusion theory e. competition-predation theory

Answer 343

Island biogeography theory

Question 344

Nitrogen fixation is the reaction where … Select one: a. nitrogen gas is converted to ammonia b. nitrogen compounds are reacted to give off oxygen c. carbon is fixed into nitrogenous compounds d. ammonia is converted to nitrogen gas e. ammonia is converted to nitrite

Answer 344

nitrogen gas is converted to ammonia

Question 345

Which of the following changes has not been observed in relation the cryosphere? Select one: a. sea level rises of about 1.7 mm during the period 1900-1990 b. sea level rises of about 3 mm per year since 1993 c. reduction in glaciers and Greenland ice sheet cover d. increased volcanic activity in Greenland e. reduction in snow cover and Arctic sea ice cover

Answer 345

increased volcanic activity in Greenland

Question 346

The figure below shows the "zero growth isocline" of species 1 (blue) and species 2 (green) in a Lotka-Volterra competition model. What will be the outcome of competition between species 1 and species 2 in this case? Select one: a. species 1 becomes extinct b. both species coexist in a stable equilibrium c. both species coexist in an unstable equilibrium d. species 2 becomes extinct

Answer 346

Species 1 becomes extinct (blue line and green line both angle down, with gap widening as they get lower) (See p159 of module guide)

Question 347

In following diagram representing characteristic rank abundance within communities, what is the distribution indicated by (I)?

Answer 347

geometric

Question 348

The figure below shows the minimum requirement of species A (blue) and species B (green) for resources 1 and 2 in Tilman's competition model. What will be the outcome of competition between species A and species B in this case? Select one: a. both species coexist in an unstable equilibrium b. species A becomes extinct c. species B becomes extinct d. both species coexist in a stable equilibrium

Answer 348

Species B becomes extinct (See p159 of module guide to check, as have got these wrong)

Question 349

The idea of gradual species replacement along environmental gradients is known as:

Answer 349

continuum concept of communities

Question 350

Intraspecific competition is asymmetric among different individuals in the same population, e.g. older and more experienced individuals often get advantages over younger ones. Which one of the following consequences of this asymmetric competition is not true? Select one: a. it will decrease the whole population size b. it will decrease the reproductive rate of the young c. it will decrease the survivorship of the young d. none of the others e. it will decrease the fitness of the young and thus change the genetic structure of the population

Answer 350

it will decrease the fitness of the young and thus change the genetic structure of the population

Question 351

True predation differs from herbivory and parasitism in that (choose best answer) Select one: a. the prey organism is always killed during or shortly after and attack b. usually many prey organisms are consumed in a predator's lifetime c. true predation refers to the interaction between carnivorous animals/plants and their preys d. a, b and c e. a and b f. b and c

Answer 351

a, b and c

Question 352

Which of the following best represents two main characteristics of communities contributing to community structure? Select one: a. growth form and trophic structure b. collective and emergent properties c. population life history and reproductive effort d. natality and mortality e. organism size and fecundity

Answer 352

growth form and trophic structure

Question 353

Which type(s) of functional responses exhibit density-dependence at high levels of prey numbers? Select one: a. Type II and Type III b. Type III c. Type II d. Type I e. Type I and Type III

Answer 353

Type II and Type III

Question 354

The figure below exhibits which Lotka-Volterra predator-prey functional responses? lotka-volterra Select one: a. type II b. type III c. type I d. type IV

Answer 354

Type III (bottom left to top right diagonal if linear, but shown with a curve)

Question 355

``` Correct Mark 1.00 out of 1.00 FlaggedRemove flag Question text Which of the following would be considered true predation? ``` Select one: a. a koala eating eucalypt leaves b. all of the choices c. a wedge-tailed eagle killing and consuming a rabbit d. disease-causing bacteria invading human lung tissue e. a wallaby nibbling on grass shoots

Answer 355

a wedge-tailed eagle killing and consuming a rabbit

Question 356

Diversity indices attempt to take into account both relative abundance of populations and overall richness of community. Select one: True False

Answer 356

True

Question 357

In following diagram representing characteristic rank abundance within communities, what is the distribution indicated by (III)? rank abundance Select one: a. geometric b. broken stick c. binomial d. log-normal e. exponential

Answer 357

Broken stick

Question 358

Sutherland's modification on the ideal free distribution predicts that when there is no interference among predators, all predators will go to the patch with the highest prey density. Select one: True False

Answer 358

True

Question 359

The definition of ‘community’ as an identifiable assemblage of interacting species in space and time is supported by the study of community variation along single or multiple environmental gradients, known as: Select one: a. collective properties b. species association analysis c. tolerance analysis d. community continua e. gradient analysis

Answer 359

Gradient analysis

Question 360

The definition of ‘community’ as an identifiable assemblage of interacting species in space and time is supported by the study of community variation along single or multiple environmental gradients, known as: Select one: a. collective properties b. species association analysis c. tolerance analysis d. community continua e. gradient analysis

Answer 360

Gradient analysis

Question 361

Cyclic change in communities refers to the ... Select one: a. non-directional, non-cyclical changes b. non-seasonal and continuous pattern of change in community structure c. non-directional changes and species inter-relations within a community dictated by the life cycles of dominant organisms affecting the overall community d. the seasonal and directional pattern of colonization/immigration and extinction of species e. on-seasonal, directional and continuous pattern of colonization/immigration and extinction of species and changes in relative abundances of species populations at a particular location

Answer 361

non-directional changes and species inter-relations within a community dictated by the life cycles of dominant organisms affecting the overall communit

Question 362

Which of the following schematics illustrates the facilitation model of secondary succession? Select one: a. (b) b. (d) c. (a) d. (c) e. none of the choices

Answer 362

b (see graphics cards)

Question 363

The pattern of maximum diversity at intermediate levels of disturbance in known as the intermediate disturbance hypothesis. Select one: True False

Answer 363

True

Question 364

In the inhibition model of community secondary succession species replacement is inhibited previous residents. Select one: True False

Answer 364

True

Question 365

The idea that many different climax communities can exist in a given area due to a range of controlling factors is known as ... Select one: a. the polyclimax theory b. the monoclimax theory c. a transient climax d. climatic climax theory e. equilibrium succession

Answer 365

Polyclimax theory

Question 366

A climax community in relation to community development is ... Select one: a. the final seral stage b. the initial seral stage c. each distinct community in a sequence d. a single unit of succession e. a unit of succession

Answer 366

The final seral stage

Question 367

A ‘community’ can be defined as: Select one: a. interacting species along an environmental gradient b. that part of the Earth containing life c. an identifiable assemblage of interacting species in space and time d. groups of species in close association e. the whole complex of species and populations

Answer 367

an identifiable assemblage of interacting species in space and time

Question 368

Interspecific competition is the biotic interaction between two different species Select one: True False

Answer 368

True

Question 369

The current view of communities is close to the organismic concept of Clements. Select one: True False

Answer 369

False

Question 370

A plot of log abundance of species in order the most to least abundant is referred to as a … Select one: a. life history plot b. plot of ecological continua c. species response curve d. rank abundance plot e. trophic response plot

Answer 370

Rank abundance plot

Question 371

The figure below exhibits which Lotka-Volterra predator-prey functional responses? Select one: a. type I b. type IV c. type III d. type II

Answer 371

Type II (bottom left to top right with curved shape)

Question 372

The graph below best describes which of the following hypotheses regarding patterns in diversity? diversity graph Select one: a. niche partitioning hypothesis b. intermediate disturbance hypothesis c. productivity hypothesis d. spatial heterogeneity hypothesis e. stability-time hypothesis

Answer 372

Intermediate disturbance hypothesis (line starts left, shapes upwards then curves down to bottom right)

Question 373

Intraspecific competition is the biotic interaction between two different species Select one: True False

Answer 373

False

Question 374

In terms of rank abundance, communities with mostly intermediate species abundances and only a few very high or very low abundances demonstrate what type of characteristic distribution? Select one: a. linear b. none of the choices c. broken stick d. geometric e. log-normal

Answer 374

Log-normal

Question 375

In the following schematic illustrating the complex successional sequence associated with secondary succession, what is the stage labelled (d)? Select one: a. climax stage b. seral stages c. dynamic equilibrium d. pioneer seral stage e. sub-climax stage

Answer 375

Climax stage (furthers to right / last stage)

Question 376

he figure below exhibits which Lotka-Volterra predator-prey functional responses? Select one: a. type IV b. type II c. type I d. type III

Answer 376

Type I (starts bottom left, straight diagonal line towards top right, then evens out and line becomes flat)

Question 377

Good searchers but poor handlers tend to be generalists. Select one: True False

Answer 377

False

Question 378

Which description is wrong for the following statement? Lotka-Volterra's predator-prey population models ... Select one: a. assume predation is random b. are a theoretical simulation that has not been observed even in controlled conditions c. are very difficult to demonstrate due to the complications in real world d. suggest populations can be impacted by an environmental perturbation e. predict populations will oscillate in an unchanging cycle

Answer 378

are a theoretical simulation that has not been observed even in controlled conditions

Question 379

Succession is .... Select one: a. the seasonal, non-directional and cyclic pattern of colonization/immigration and extinction of species b. species inter-relations within a community dictated by the life cycles of dominant organisms affecting the overall community c. seasonal and continuous pattern of change in community structure d. non-directional, non-cyclical changes e. on-seasonal, directional and continuous pattern of colonization/immigration and extinction of species and changes in relative abundances of species populations at a particular location

Answer 379

on-seasonal, directional and continuous pattern of colonization/immigration and extinction of species and changes in relative abundances of species populations at a particular location

Question 380

Which description about ideal free distributions is incorrect? (choose one) Select one: a. all predators are assumed to be equal b. all patches end up with the same profitability c. Profitable patches will attract more predators and thus decline more quickly in profitability d. Predators tend to leave less profitable patches and move to more profitable patches e. none of the others

Answer 380

none of the others

Question 381

Which of the following statements best describes competition? Select one: a. Coexisting species adapt to competition by evolving to use slightly different resources b. Competition always involves one species benefiting and the other being harmed by the interaction c. Competition for resources always involves aggression d. Members of different species never compete for resources e. Competition always results in the disappearance of one of the competing species

Answer 381

Coexisting species adapt to competition by evolving to use slightly different resources

Question 382

Which of the following is not a major category of interspecific or intraspecific interaction among organisms? (choose one) Select one: a. speciation b. symbiosis c. competition d. all of the others e. predation

Answer 382

speciation

Question 383

Diversity indices attempt to … Select one: a. measure community resilience b. take into account both relative abundance of populations and overall richness of a community c. incorporate population attributes into community patterns d. consider rank abundance only e. measure successional sequences in communities

Answer 383

take into account both relative abundance of populations and overall richness of a community

Question 384

The facilitation model of community succession maintains that species replacement is not affected by previous residents. Select one: True False

Answer 384

False

Question 385

As a predator, humans have a polyphagous diet Select one: True False

Answer 385

True

Question 386

A close physical association between organisms, such as the association of mycorrhizal fungi with the roots of plants in forests, which is beneficial to both species, is known as which of the following? Select one: a. a food web b. parasitism c. mutualism d. pollination e. competition

Answer 386

Mutualism

Question 387

Collective properties of communities include which of the following: Select one: a. community structure b. competition, mutualism and parasitism c. ecological continua d. species population levels e. community stability, change and complexity

Answer 387

competition, mutualism and parasitism

Question 388

Match the following terms regarding extinction to the appropriate definition ecologically extinct extirpation extant extinct in wild Answer 4 individuals remain, but only in captivity/under cultivation

Answer 388

ecologically extinct → species is so rare that it’s ecological role and ability to reproduce is negligible, extirpation → local extinction, extant → living specie s(not extinct), extinct in wild → individuals remain, but only in captivity/under cultivation

Question 389

In the following diagrams illustrating stable states in communities, which exhibits a ‘resilient’ system? stability graphs Select one: a. I, II and III b. II c. III d. I e. II and III

Answer 389

I (a line shaped with a double curve and a moutain like peak in the middle of the two depressions - the ball is on the left side of the mountain)

Question 390

The rate of movement of nutrients between compartments within global nutrient cycles is called the flux rate Select one: True False

Answer 390

True

Question 391

Which of the following greenhouse gas has been recognised by the IPCC (2007) as causing the most significant contributions to anthropogenic climate change in terms of radiative forcing? Select one: a. ozone b. carbon dioxide c. nitrogen d. nitrous oxides e. methane

Answer 391

CO2

Question 392

Removal of a keystone species may result in significant changes in the relative abundance of other organisms within that community. Select one: True False

Answer 392

True

Question 393

Global variation in primary production appears limited by nutrient availability. Select one: True False

Answer 393

True

Question 394

Nutrients, such as phosphorus, that contain a significant sedimentary component of their nutrient cycles … Select one: a. are usually more available for uptake by organisms b. cycle relatively quickly compared with nutrients with atmospheric cycles c. are considerably depleted by losses to the atmosphere d. cycle very slowly compared with nutrients with atmospheric cycles e. are prone to be washed into the seas and oceans by runoff

Answer 394

cycle very slowly compared with nutrients with atmospheric cycles

Question 395

The phenomenon of higher ambient carbon dioxide concentrations leading to increased production of plant biomass, which in turn leads to increased carbon sequestration is known as … Select one: a. CO2 fertilisation b. the carbon cycle c. global dimming d. global warming e. the butterfly effect

Answer 395

CO2 fertilisation

Question 396

Which of the following is not regarded as a factor making species more vulnerable to extinction? Select one: a. small population size b. habitat generalists c. small geographic range d. large body size e. poor dispersers

Answer 396

Habitat generalists

Question 397

Which of the following is not an example of a stochastic factor affecting small populations? Select one: a. random differences among individuals in survival and reproduction b. cyclone c. selection d. variations in birth and death rates in response to weather e. habitat destruction

Answer 397

Habitat destruction

Question 398

Twenty-five percent of the world’s population consumes about 80% of the world’s energy. Select one: True False

Answer 398

True

Question 399

Which of the following is not an example of a deterministic factor affecting small populations? Select one: a. habitat fragmentation b. cyclone c. disease d. inability to find a mate e. habitat destruction

Answer 399

cyclone

Question 400

Global stability within communities refers to … Select one: a. where a system is able to return to its former position following a large disturbance b. where there are no disturbances acting on the community c. the degree to which a variable (e.g. species abundance or diversity) is changed following a perturbation d. where a system is unable to return to its former position following a disturbance e. where a system is able to return to its former position following a small temporary disturbance

Answer 400

where a system is able to return to its former position following a large disturbance

Question 401

A keystone species is always the most abundant within a community. Select one: True False

Answer 401

False

Question 402

Which factor below is least likely to be a density-dependent factor? Select one: a. parasitism b. the amount of shelter available c. a cold snap d. epidemic disease e. water availability

Answer 402

A cold snap

Question 403

A predator-prey response where there is a constant rate of consumption by the predator (up to limit) is .... Select one: a. a type III response b. a type I response c. interference competition d. uncommon e. a type II response

Answer 403

A Type I Response

Question 404

The distribution of species along an environmental gradient in the diagram below suggests what sort of community structure? Select one: a. an ecotone b. a closed community as predicted by the Gleasonian view c. a open community as predicted by the Gleasonian view d. a closed community as predicted by the Clementsian view e. a open community as predicted by the Clementsian view

Answer 404

Gleasonian view (open). In these questions, check the graph word document and realise that Gleasonian are open, Clementsian are closed.

Question 405

The figure below shows the "zero growth isocline" of species 1 (blue) and species 2 (green) in a Lotka-Volterra competition model. What will be the outcome of competition between species 1 and species 2 in this case? Select one: a. both species coexist in an unstable equilibrium b. species 1 becomes extinct c. species 2 becomes extinct d. both species coexist in a stable equilibrium

Answer 405

both species coexist in a stable equilibrium (See p159 of module guide to check, as have got these wrong)