Explain the following terms used in ecology - Leaving Cert Biology - Question 11 - 2016

An abiotic factor refers to non-living components of an ecosystem that influence the environment and the organisms within it, such as temperature, sunlight, water, and soil.

A consumer is an organism that obtains its energy and nutrients by eating other organisms, which can include both plants and animals.

The queen bumblebee comes out of hibernation in the spring, typically around February to May.

The queen makes her nest in an old mouse hole.

Unfertilised eggs develop into male bumblebees.

The female bee collects nectar and pollen from the flower.

A habitat is the natural environment in which an organism lives, including all biotic and abiotic factors that affect it.

Bee habitats have been lost due to farming practices, forestry, and housing developments that have altered or destroyed their natural environments.

Conservation refers to the wise management and protection of the environment and natural resources to prevent loss of biodiversity.

Pollution is defined as any harmful addition of substances to the environment that can lead to adverse effects on ecosystems and human health.

One effect of fertilizers, a common agricultural pollutant, is the stimulation of algal blooms in waterways, which can deplete oxygen levels and harm aquatic life.

One specific way to control fertilizer-related pollution is by implementing buffer zones, which are areas of vegetation that can absorb excess fertilizer runoff before it enters waterways.

An example of good waste management from agriculture is composting organic waste to improve soil health and reduce landfill contributions.

Two ways to minimise domestic waste include reducing the use of single-use plastics and recycling materials such as paper, glass, and metals.