Ecology & Ecosystems — Set 6
Environment · पारिस्थितिकी और पारिस्थितिकी तंत्र · Questions 51–60 of 60
Which of the following is a major 'Carbon Sink' on Earth?
Correct Answer: B. Oceans
Oceans absorb a large amount of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere through direct dissolution and photosynthesis by plankton. Forests are also significant carbon sinks that help mitigate climate change. Protecting these sinks is vital for global carbon balance.
In the ecological pyramid of biomass, which type of ecosystem can show an inverted pyramid?
Correct Answer: C. Aquatic
In aquatic ecosystems, the biomass of consumers (fish) can be greater than the biomass of producers (plankton) at any given moment. This happens because plankton reproduce very quickly but have a very short lifespan. This is a classic textbook exception to the upright pyramid rule.
What is the main role of decomposers in an ecosystem?
Correct Answer: C. To recycle nutrients back into the soil
Decomposers like bacteria and fungi break down dead matter into inorganic substances. These substances are then taken up again by plants to continue the cycle of life. Without them, waste would pile up and nutrients would be locked away.
Which ecosystem is often described as the 'Lungs of the World'?
Correct Answer: B. Tropical Rainforests
Tropical rainforests produce a significant portion of the Earth's oxygen through vast amounts of vegetation. They also play a critical role in sequestering carbon and maintaining global rainfall patterns. The Amazon is the most famous example of this ecosystem.
The study of the relationship between an individual species and its environment is called?
Correct Answer: B. Autecology
Autecology focuses on the life history and adaptations of a single species in relation to its surroundings. In contrast, synecology studies the interactions between different species within a whole community. Both branches are essential for a complete understanding of biological systems.
A group of individuals of the same species living in a particular area at a given time is a?
Correct Answer: B. Population
Population ecology studies the factors that affect the size and distribution of such groups. It considers birth rates, death rates, and migration patterns. Understanding populations is key to conserving endangered species.
Which term describes the process where one organism kills and eats another for food?
Correct Answer: C. Predation
Predation is a direct interaction between a predator and its prey. This process helps control the population size of prey species and maintains balance in the ecosystem. It is a fundamental driver of natural selection and evolution.
The concept of 'Ecological Niche' was first popularized by?
Correct Answer: B. Joseph Grinnell
Joseph Grinnell used the term in the early 20th century to describe the habitat requirements of a species. Later, Charles Elton expanded it to include the functional role of a species in a community. It is often described as the 'address' and 'profession' of a species.
Which of the following is a non-renewable resource in an ecosystem's timeframe?
Correct Answer: C. Fossil Fuels
Fossil fuels take millions of years to form and cannot be replaced once consumed. Solar energy and wind are renewable as they are constantly replenished. Sustainable management focuses on utilizing renewable resources while conserving non-renewable ones.
What is the most stable ecological community that is the result of long-term succession?
Correct Answer: C. Climax Community
A climax community remains relatively unchanged as long as the environment stays the same. It is in equilibrium with the local climate and soil conditions. This stage marks the end of a successful ecological succession process.