Mapping Biodiversity
Define Ecology
An adaptation is a characteristic of a living thing that helps it survive in its environment.
What is a pollen?
Pollen is a fine powder plants produce to reproduce
What is a biome? (define it)
a large naturally occurring community of flora and fauna occupying a major habitat.
Is the Tree of Heaven native to NJ?
Define a community (in ecology)
A community is an assemblage of populations of different organisms (plants, fungi, animals, microorganisms) interacting with one another and coexisting in a defined area. Forest communities are constantly changing
Define a trait
a genetically determined characteristic
What is a pollinator?
an agent that conveys pollen to a plant and allows fertilization
Do broad leaves capture more sunlight or retain more water?
Broad Leaves Capture More Sunlight!
What's a native plant?
A plant growing in its original/correct ecosystem.
What biome are we in?
A Deciduous Forest
anything goes!
What are examples of pollinators?
Bees, Wasps, Flies, Possums, ANYTHING ELSE!
Where would you find plants with large waxy leaves that fall off every winter? (Annually)
The Deciduous Forest!
Why do plants have thorns?
To reduce predation
What are the 5 layers that make up a Forest?
Canopy, Subcanopy, Shrub, Herbaceous, & Litter
What's an example of an adaptation?
anything goes!
Are pollinators only animals/insects?
NO! Wind is a major pollinator, especially in fall!
Where can you find small plants with thick fleshy leaves?
The Desert!
Why is studying the forest important?
Helps us learn about the ecosystem's balance, tree disease, deer or wildlife population
What is gap succession
any event where a tree falls down and leaves a gap in the canopy, allowing new plant growth
Do all plants have leaves?
NOPE some cacti have spines instead!
Yes and no! Some flowers are specific (like Orchids and Milkweed) to the pollinator they require. Orchids can only be pollinated by a specific fly that can fit into it's elongated neck, while Milkweeds are specialized for Monarch Butterflies and their long snoot.
Where would you find plants that have DRIP-TIPS on their leaves, pushing water away from roots to avoid rotting?
The Rain Forest!
Why is studying pollination important?
Loss of pollinating insects causes disruptions in the food chain/ecosystem.