Ecological Levels
sum of the surfaces, atmosphere and hydrosphere of the earth which is occupied by living organisms
Biosphere
uses oxygen to break down glucose and release energy
Cellular Respiration
when one species benefits while another is unaffected
Commensalism
wetland with grasses and mineral rich water
Fens
small, moss-like organisms formed by a fungus and algae or cyanobacteria living together
Lichens
assemblage of different populations of flora and fauna species in an area
Community
non-living factors
Abiotic
linear representation which shows the flow of energy from one organism to another
Food Chain
wetland which accumulates dead plant material
Bogs
development of vegetation in a community to a steady state over a period of time
Climax Community
ecological level where biotic and abiotic elements interact within a biome
Ecosystem
animals found in an area
Fauna
when two species benefit from ecological interaction
Mutualism
defined by a very low concentration of salt
Freshwater
process by which ecosystems advance toward a climax community through development of stages over time
Ecological Succession
large, naturally occurring ecological levels occupying a major habitat; include aquatic, forest, grassland and wetland
Biomes
any living organism
Biotic
struggle between two organisms for the same resources, such as food, space or mates
Competition
plants found in an area
Flora
lichens, such as fungi, algae and cyanobacteria, which begin colonization
Pioneer Species
study of the relationship between an organism and its environment
Ecology
consume decayed plants and animals
Detritivores
species or group of species which has the greatest influence on the community
Dominance
mixture of freshwater and saltwater
Brackish
process where natural forces, such as wind and water, wear away rock and soil and move them to new places
Erosion