Ecology Packet Notes pg. 1-2

Ecology The study of interactions among organisms and between organisms in their environment or surroundings.

Organization of Life A. Organism: An individual Niche: the “role” an organism plays and their effect on their environment Habitat: the place an organism lives

Organization of Life B. Population: A group of organisms of the same species that occupy the same space. C. Community: a group of populations interacting in the same environment.

Organization of Life D. Ecosystem: Interactions between a community and physical surroundings.

Organization of Life Biotic factors: Living factors Abiotic factors: non- living factors

Organization of Life E. Biome- a group of ecosystems that share similar climates and typical organisms.

Organization of Life F. Biosphere: highest level of organization. It is the portion of Earth that supports life. It extends from the bottom of the ocean to miles up in the atmosphere.

Interactions in an Ecosystem A. Competition: when organisms of the same or different species attempt to use a resource in the same place at the same time.

Interactions in an Ecosystem B. Predation: one organism (the predator) captures and feeds on another organism (the prey) Helps keep population size balanced

Interactions in an Ecosystem C. Symbiosis: A close relationship between two species.

Mutualism Both organisms benefit

Commensalism One organism benefits and the other is neither harmed nor benefited

Parasitism One organism benefits at the expense of another

Interactions in an Ecosystem D. Communication and Defense of Territory Communication is used to communicate with animals of their own of a different species. Used to identify themselves to a group, attract mates, warn others of danger and protect habitats

Sound Communication Hissing, howling, songs

Visual Communication Courtship dances to attract mates

Chemical Communication A. Pheromone: a chemical substance in many animals to bring about a specific response in others of the same species.

E. Territory An area that an animal claims and defends to ensure it has access to resources it needs. Can be small (nest) or large (den). Animals mark their territory through chemical marker (urine), sound and aggressive behavior.