Bio2129 lecture 1
what is ecology
The scientific study of the distrobution and abundance of species. where a species lives (geografically/habitat) and how many individuals of a species are found in a specific area.
why does ecology not equal enviromentalism
Ecology is a scientific study that uses the scientific method and gathers data to study living organisms and their enviroment. Eviromentalism is an ideology, cause or purpose, based on values and is aimed to protect the enviroment
what are some critical problems in ecology
climate change, overfishing, habitat loss and invasive species
what are some scales of study in ecology
population dynamic and ecosystem dynamics
what are ecosystem dynamics
patterns and processes that come from all biotic-abiotic interactions in an area
what are ecosystem processes
the natural flows of energy , materials and interactions that keep ecosystems running
what is the global carbon cycle
in spring plants absorb large amounts of co2 through photosythesis, which fuels global ecosystem growth
why would ecologists use fire on purpose?
Nutrient cycling : ashes from bured plants fertalize soil and creates nutrient rich ground for rapid growth.
Keeps grazing ecosystems : fire romoves old vegtitation and makes way for new highyl nutritious growth that supports herbivores.
Root resilience : deep roots survive the fire and during precipitation roots sprout quickly
Reduce fuel build up : prevents uncontrolled mildfires by reducing dead plant materials
Maintains ecosystem dynamics : fire is a natural disturbance regmine so it keeps ecosystems in balance and prevents one species from taking over which maintains biodiversity.
what are population dynamics
Why and by how much do populations change in size. affects species distrobutions
what are ecological applications
how ecology is applied in real-world situations to solve enviromental, social and economic problems. It is important for research and for understanding causes of extinction and dynamics
ecology contributes to scientific underpinnings for __and provides ____
concervation, scientific evidence, foudation nd principles for conservation activites like protecting endangered species and restoring habitats.
why is the loss of species bad
it has practical consequences (small or large) and can erode species functions/services that humans use
what is an ecosystem function
biophysical processes of an ecosystem
what is an ecosystem service
when biophysical processes of an ecosystems benefit humans economically, ect
example of ecosystem service
pollination, help to sustain global food production, helps crops and wild plants regrow, and keeps biodiversity.
ecosystems are curtial because
humans cannot survive without the servicees they provide
what are some services that ecosystems provide humans
flood control, soil creation, climate regulation, renewable resources and pollination
example of how species roles are important in ecosystems
carnivores control population of herbavores. they kill weak/sick individuals which promotes natural selection. this keeps herbivore popualtions healthy in the long run and creates conditions for other species to colonize which support biodiversity.