Biotic Factors
What are biotic factors in an ecosystem?
Living things like plants, animals, and bacteria.
What are abiotic factors in an ecosystem?
Non-living things like water, sunlight, and soil.
What is an ecosystem?
A community of organisms interacting with each other and their environment.
How do plants use sunlight to survive?
Through photosynthesis, converting sunlight into energy.
How do bees and flowers interact?
Bees pollinate flowers, which helps plants reproduce.
Give an example of a biotic interaction in a forest.
Deer eating leaves from trees.
How does temperature affect the animals living in an ecosystem?
It influences their metabolic rates and seasonal behaviors.
Why is biodiversity important in a healthy ecosystem?
It ensures a variety of roles are filled, increasing stability.
What role do worms play in helping plants grow?
They aerate the soil and decompose organic material.
How does a squirrel use trees in its habitat?
Trees provide shelter and food for squirrels.
How do predators and prey affect each other's populations?
Predators control prey populations, and prey provide food for predators.
What effect does rainfall have on a pond ecosystem?
It can increase water levels, affecting plant and animal life.
What happens when an ecosystem is unbalanced?
It can lead to species decline or overpopulation.
How do fish adapt to changing water currents?
They develop streamlined bodies to swim efficiently.
How do ducks benefit from a pond?
They eat aquatic plants and small insects, and use water for protection.
What is mutualism?
A relationship where both species benefit, like bees and flowers.
How does soil quality affect plant growth?
Poor soil can limit plant growth, affecting the entire food chain.
What is a keystone species and give an example?
A species that has a disproportionately large effect on its environment, e.g., wolves in Yellowstone.
How do cacti survive in the desert?
They store water in their thick stems and have spines to reduce water loss.
How do clownfish and sea anemones interact?
Clownfish live among the anemone’s tentacles for protection; they are immune to the toxins.
How does competition between species affect their development?
It can lead to adaptations that help each species access different resources.
How do light levels affect the behavior of nocturnal animals?
Low light levels trigger activity in animals like owl.
Describe a change that could disrupt a healthy ecosystem.
Introduction of invasive species, pollution, or climate change.
How do animals in the Arctic adapt to cold temperatures?
They grow thick fur and store fat for insulation.
What role do coral reefs play in marine ecosystems?
They provide habitat and protection for numerous marine species.