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Ecological Terms

Investigating Numbers and Distribution

Investigating Variation

Frame Quadrats

Line Transects

Mark-Release-Recapture

Diversity

Abiotic (non-living) Factors

Biotic (living) Factors - Interaction Between Organisms

Table 5-14-1: The environment influences diversity
Less Extreme/Harsh Environments Extreme Environments
Higher diversity → more plant species → more niches→ greater variety of food → less competition for resources → more food available → less harsh environment (abiotic) in forest Lower diversity → less plant species → less niches → smaller variety of food → higher competition for resources →less food available → more harsh environment (abiotic) in forest
Stable ecosystem, if the population of one species changes, alternative food sources are available Unstable ecosystem, change in the population of one species affects populations of other species
Biotic factor(s) dominate Abiotic factor(s) are extreme and dominate
Many species have adaptations that allow them tosurvive, including many producers Only a few species have adaptations that allow them to survive
Higher solar energy input gives more light for photosynthesis (and higher temperatures)

Succession

Table 5-14-2: Succession
PIONEER COMMUNITY STABLE CLIMAX COMMUNITY
HARSH ENVIRONMENT LESS HARSH ENVIRONMENT
PIONEER SPECIES WITH ADAPTED CONDITIONS MORE PLANT SPECIES CAN GROW
LOW DIVERSITY HIGH DIVERSITY