- Ecology is the study of interactions between organisms and their environment.
- The levels of organization in ecology range from individual organisms to the biosphere.
- A population consists of individuals of the same species living in a specific area.
- A community includes all populations living and interacting in a given area.
- An ecosystem encompasses both the biotic (living) and abiotic (non-living) components of an environment.
- The biosphere is the global sum of all ecosystems, where life exists.
- Biotic factors are living components like plants, animals, and microorganisms.
- Abiotic factors are non-living physical and chemical elements such as sunlight, temperature, water, and soil.
- Autotrophs produce their own food through photosynthesis or chemosynthesis.
- Heterotrophs obtain energy by consuming other organisms.
- Detritivores break down dead organic matter, playing a key role in nutrient cycling.
- Symbiosis describes close, long-term biological interactions between two different species.
- Mutualism is a symbiotic relationship where both species benefit.
- Commensalism is a relationship where one species benefits and the other is neither helped nor harmed.
- Parasitism is a relationship where one organism (parasite) benefits at the expense of the host.
- Competition occurs when organisms or species vie for the same limited resources.
- Predation involves one organism (predator) hunting and consuming another (prey).
- Population growth can be exponential (unrestricted) or logistic (limited by carrying capacity).
- Carrying capacity is the maximum population size an environment can sustain indefinitely.
- Succession is the gradual process by which ecosystems change and develop over time.
- Primary succession occurs on bare rock or areas without soil.
- Secondary succession follows a disturbance that removes existing vegetation but leaves soil intact.
- Threats to biodiversity include habitat loss, invasive species, pollution, overexploitation, and climate change.
- Conservation efforts aim to protect species and ecosystems from these threats.
Parent Tip: Review the logic above to help your child master the concept of ecosystems concept map worksheet.
