Biotic Factors
What does the word Biotic mean?
Living organisms in an ecosystem. (trees, shrubs, birds, mammals, fish, insects, fungi, etc)
What does the word Abiotic mean?
Non-living parts of an ecosystem.
Define an ecosystem.
A community of living and non-living things that interact in a specific environment.
Define Biodiversity.
The variety of living things in a given place.
The animals in your zoo enclosure DO NOT need to be able to co-exist. True or False?
FALSE. They must be able to co-habitate
Give one example of how a biotic factor depends on an abiotic factor.
Plants (biotic) need sunlight and water (abiotic) to grow.
Name three examples of abiotic factors.
Sunlight, water, temperature, soil, air, etc.
What is the difference between a habitat and an ecosystem?
A habitat is where an organism lives; an ecosystem includes all living and non-living interactions.
Why is the study of biodiveristy important?
In order for all living things to be healthy and resilient, we need to understand the balance between species so we don't throw the balance out of whack.
Name a minimum of three materials you might need for your zoo enclosure.
shoe box, science booklet, modeling clay/platicine, laptop, construciton paper, pipe clearners, toothpicks, straws, etc.
What do all biotic components in eosystems need to survive?
How does sunlight affect plant growth in an ecosystem?
It provides energy for photosynthesis.
Name one typeof ecosystem found in Saskatchewan.
Prairie, forest, wetland, or freshwater lake.
Give ONE example of human activity that decreases biodiversity.
Deforestation, pollution, overfishing, etc.
How many different animals do you need in your enclosure (minimum)?
3 Minimum
Ecosystems can be overpopulated iwth too many biotic componenets... True or False?
TRUE.
Animals need space to survive. An ecosystem has a carrying capacity fro animals. If too many animals live in an ecosystem, overpopulation probelms occur.
Why is soil considered an abiotic factor even though it has living things in it?
Soil is considered an abiotic factor because its primary components are non-living matierals like minerals, rock particles, water and air.
What might happen if one species in an ecosystem goes extinct?
It can affect the food web and balance of the ecosystem.
What can happen to an ecosystem when biodiversity decreases?
It becomes less stable and more vulnerable to change.
What must you do BEFORE beginning your physical model of your zoo enclosure?
Complete all the pages in the booklet, and show a teacher before moving on.
Is a rotting log a biotic or abiotic component?
Biotic!
It was once a living organism and is part of the organic cycle even though it is no longer alive. It is composed of organic material and supports other living organisms such as fungi, bacteria, and insects, which are also biotic components.
True. Wind helps plants grow stronger roots and sturdier stems.
__________ ecosystems are located in the Artic in the Northern Hemipshere. The _________ is massive and has no trees because the ground is permanently frozen.
Tundra
How can people help protect biodiversity?
By conserving habitats, reducing pollution, and supporting sustainable practices.
Your zoo enclosure should include only BIOTIC factors. True or False?
FALSE. Your zoo enclosure should include both biotic and abiotic factors.