Adaptations and Niches
What are adaptations?
A physical or behavioral trait that helps an organism survive and reproduce. They develop over many generations.
What is competition?
When organisms fight for the same limited resources (food, water, space). Competition increases when resources are scarce.
What is symbiosis/a symbiotic relationship?
A close relationship between two species.
What is succession?
The gradual change in an ecosystem over time.
What is biodiversity?
The variety of life in an ecosystem.
What are some examples of adaptations?
- Thick fur for warmth
- Camouflage for protection
- Sharp teeth for catching prey
What is predation?
One organism (predator) hunts and eats another (prey).
What is mutualism? Give an example.
A symbiotic relationship in which both organisms benefit.
Example:
- Bee and Flower: Flower gets pollinated, facilitating reproduction, bee gets nectar.
What is primary succession?
What is the ecological value of biodiversity?
Biodiversity keeps ecosystems balanced and healthy. It helps cycle food, water, and air.
What is a niche?
The role or job an organism has in its ecosystem. No two species can share the exact same niche for long.
What is commensalism? Give an example.
A symbiotic relationship in which one organism benefits, the other is unaffected.
Example:
- Barnacles on whales: Barnacles attach to whales for protection and left over food, whales are unaffected.
What is secondary succession?
The series of changes that occur in an area where the ecosystem has been disturbed, but where soil and organisms already exist.
What is the economic value of biodiversity?
Biodiversity provides food, medicine, jobs. Allows humans to create homes, clothes & tools
What defines an organism's niche?
- What it eats
- Where it lives
- How it interacts with other organisms
What is Parasitism? Give an example.
A symbiotic relationship in which one organism benefits, whilst the other is harmed.
Example:
- Ticks on dogs: Ticks feed on dogs, dogs get severe health problems.
What is genetic diversity?
The variety of genes within a species. It helps species survive disease and environmental changes.
What is niche diversity?
The variety of roles organisms play in an ecosystem. It reduces competition.