Exam 19: Systems Ecology

Briefly explain the difference in above and below ground plant competition.

Define positive and negative feedback. Using examples, explain how these function in an ecosystem

Define the concepts of dynamic equilibrium and pulsing states as they apply to ecosystems.

When nutrient availability increases within a plant community, diversity usually increases.

A key element in BEF is that diversity drives ecosystem function.

Explain the ecosystem concept. How is it different from population ecology?

Explain how functional redundancy is a good thing in an ecosystem.

Ecosystem size may be more critical than productivity in determining diversity in lakes.

Explain the Gaia hypothesis in the context of cybernetics.

Generally ________ limits productivity.

Define what is meant by an alternative stable state.

Regional diversity is also known as beta diversity.

Explain why the ecosystem can be considered the basic unit of nature.

When the output of one system component becomes the input for the same or other system component, it is said to function as a(n)

Positive feedback can have a negative outcome.

Compare and contrast resistance and resilience.

It is observed that smaller plants do much poorer and grow less in ecosystems dominated by larger plants. This is due to

Total species diversity, or species richness, of individual communities is referred to as ________ diversity.

Outline the three levels of diversity considered in the modern concept of biodiversity.

________ is the ability of a system to remain the same when confronted with a disturbance.