Chapter 2

Explain why both species richness and species evenness are important for a healthy ecosystem.

Using the example of spring wildflowers and the critical factor of rainfall, explain the term range of tolerance (in terms of the distribution of wildflowers within their range).

Human actions are shrinking populations and reducing their genetic variation. How might this affect the ability of a population to respond to an environmental alteration like climate change?

Why can't exponential growth continue indefinitely?

Which species are more negatively affected by habitat fragmentation: edge or core species? Explain.

Why can't exponential growth continue indefinitely?7. What effect might the sudden influx of a new food source or the removal of a predator have on a population?

Kangaroo rats eat seeds and are eaten by coyotes. Under what conditions might the kangaroo rat population increase logistically rather than exponentially?

How do alligators fit the definition of a keystone species?

Think about the many roles played by the alligator in the Everglades. For each of the relationships listed here, identify an example of the alligator and another species that illustrates that relationship: predation, competition, mutualism, and commensalism.

What is the purpose of photosynthesis and cellular respiration? Who performs these reactions: producers, consumers, or both?