Environmental Studies ยท Biology
Ecology and Biodiversity
1,739 Questions
Ecology and biodiversity are vital topics in environmental studies, covering ecosystem structures, species diversity, and environmental impacts. These concepts are frequently tested in competitive examinations for civil services and state selections. The questions cover carrying capacity, ecological succession, and conservation fundamentals.
Species richness measurementTypes of ecological diversityBiome distribution factorsCarrying capacity conceptEcosystem servicesEnvironmental Impact Assessment
Ecology and Biodiversity Questions
Which of the following is NOT a common type of environmental model?
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Deterministic models
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Stochastic models
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Agent-based models
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Physical models
D
Correct answer
Explanation
Physical models are not typically used in environmental modeling and simulation, as they are often impractical or impossible to construct.
What are the three main types of environmental models?
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Deterministic, stochastic, and agent-based.
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Physical, mathematical, and conceptual.
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Static, dynamic, and spatial.
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Continuous, discrete, and hybrid.
A
Correct answer
Explanation
The three main types of environmental models are deterministic, stochastic, and agent-based. Deterministic models assume that the system being modeled is governed by fixed laws and relationships, while stochastic models allow for uncertainty and variability in the system. Agent-based models simulate the behavior of individual agents within the system.
Which type of ecological model is used to represent the interactions between species in a community?
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Population model
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Community model
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Ecosystem model
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Landscape model
B
Correct answer
Explanation
Community models focus on the interactions and dynamics among different species within an ecological community.
Which type of ecological model is used to represent the spatial distribution of species or populations?
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Population model
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Community model
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Ecosystem model
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Landscape model
D
Correct answer
Explanation
Landscape models focus on the spatial distribution and interactions of species or populations across a heterogeneous landscape.
Which type of ecological model is used to represent the flow of energy and nutrients through an ecosystem?
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Population model
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Community model
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Ecosystem model
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Landscape model
C
Correct answer
Explanation
Ecosystem models focus on the interactions and dynamics of energy and nutrients within an ecosystem.
Which type of ecological model is used to represent the dynamics of a single population over time?
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Population model
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Community model
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Ecosystem model
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Landscape model
A
Correct answer
Explanation
Population models focus on the dynamics of a single population, including factors such as birth, death, and migration.
TEK is often associated with:
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Indigenous knowledge systems
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Local knowledge systems
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Traditional knowledge systems
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All of the above
D
Correct answer
Explanation
TEK is often associated with indigenous knowledge systems, local knowledge systems, and traditional knowledge systems, which are knowledge systems that have been developed and passed down through generations within specific cultural communities.
Which of the following is NOT a type of human ecosystem?
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Urban
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Rural
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Suburban
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Natural
D
Correct answer
Explanation
Natural ecosystems are not created or modified by humans. They are ecosystems that exist without human intervention.
Which term refers to the ability of ecosystems to absorb and store carbon dioxide?
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Carbon Sink
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Carbon Source
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Carbon Cycle
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Carbon Neutrality
A
Correct answer
Explanation
Carbon Sink refers to ecosystems that absorb and store more carbon dioxide than they release.
What is the term used to describe the interconnectedness and interdependence of all living organisms and their physical environment?
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Biodiversity
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Ecosystem Services
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Ecological Footprint
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Gaia Hypothesis
D
Correct answer
Explanation
The Gaia Hypothesis proposes that the Earth's living organisms and physical environment interact as a complex system that maintains the conditions necessary for life on the planet.
Which concept refers to the idea that humans are part of nature and have a responsibility to live in harmony with the natural world?
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Deep Ecology
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Shallow Ecology
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Environmentalism
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Conservationism
A
Correct answer
Explanation
Deep Ecology is a philosophical perspective that emphasizes the interconnectedness of all living organisms and the importance of preserving the integrity of natural ecosystems.
What is the term used to describe the unique ecosystem found at the interface of freshwater and saltwater in wetlands?
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Estuary
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Delta
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Riparian zone
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Wetland-upland transition zone
D
Correct answer
Explanation
The wetland-upland transition zone is the unique ecosystem found at the interface of freshwater and saltwater in wetlands, where different plant and animal communities interact.
What is the term used to describe the ability of an ecosystem to maintain its structure and function in the face of disturbances?
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Resilience
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Stability
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Homeostasis
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Equilibrium
A
Correct answer
Explanation
Resilience is the ability of an ecosystem to maintain its structure and function in the face of disturbances. It is a key factor in determining the health of an ecosystem.
Which ecological concept describes the distribution of species along an environmental gradient?
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Niche Partitioning
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Resource Competition
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Habitat Selection
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Ecological Succession
C
Correct answer
Explanation
Habitat selection refers to the process by which species choose specific habitats that provide suitable conditions for their survival and reproduction.
Which ecological concept describes the process by which a community of organisms changes over time?
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Ecological Succession
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Species Turnover
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Habitat Fragmentation
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Population Dynamics
A
Correct answer
Explanation
Ecological succession refers to the gradual and orderly change in the composition of a community over time, leading to the establishment of a stable and self-sustaining ecosystem.