Ecology studies the interactions among organisms and their environment. Important ecological concepts such as habitat, niche, population, community and ecosystem form the foundation of environmental science and are frequently tested in competitive exams.
‘Ecology’ is the study of the relationship between–
Correct Answer:
(A) Organism and Environment
The word 'ecology' originated from Greek 'Oikos' meaning house or environment. Ecology is the study of interactions among organisms and their environment. It also includes the study of organismal interaction with abiotic components of their environment. The word 'ecology' ('Oekologie') was coined by German scientist, Ernst Haeckel (1834-1919). Haeckel defi ned Ecology as the study of the relationship of an organism with their environment. Ecology in current age refers to a broader spectrum encompassing not only plants, animal species and climate but also to human beings and its physical surroundings.
Note: Arne Naess was a Norwegian philosopher who coined the term “deep ecology” in 1972.
Ques: 2
Which of the following does not help to maintain ecological balance?
Correct Answer:
(A) Cutting forest
Wildlife conservation and prevention of environmental pollution is helpful in maintaining ecological balance. Deforestation adds to the environmental imbalance.
Note: It is lumbering which disturbs the ecological balance.
Ques: 3
Which one of the following is one of the main causes of ecological imbalance in India?
Correct Answer:
(A) Deforestation
Deforestation is one of the main causes of ecological imbalance in India. While, desertification, floods and famines and rainfall variations are secondary causes.
Note: Joseph Grinnell referred to the “ecological or environmental niche” as the ultimate distributional unit of “species and subspecies”.
Ques: 4
Which of the following is an example of a biotic component of an ecosystem?
Correct Answer:
(C) Plants
Biotic components are living organisms, while abiotic components are non-living factors. Plants are living organisms that contribute to the ecosystem.
Ques: 5
Which of the following is an example of a decomposer?
Correct Answer:
(C) Bacteria
Decomposers are organisms that break down dead organic matter, such as plants and animals, and return nutrients to the ecosystem. Bacteria and fungi are examples of decomposers