1. 3-1 What is Ecology? 3-2 Energy Flow Reading: 63-65 Reading: 67-73 Homework Sheet: 3-1 Homework Sheet: 3-2

2. What is Ecology? Ecology the study of interactions between organisms and their environment. Biosphere combined portions of the planet where all life exists.

3. Which Levels of Organization Do Ecologists Study? Species Populations Communities Ecosystems Biomes

4. Methods For Studying Ecology Observing Experimenting Modeling

5. 3-2 Energy Flow Reading: 67-73 Homework Sheet: 3-2

6. The Role of the Sun The sun is the main energy source for life on Earth.

7. Autotrophs = Producers Autotrophs and producers make their own food.

8. Photosynthesis vs. Chemosynthesis Photosynthesis- the harnessing of light energy to make food. Chemosynthesis- the harnessing of chemical energy to make food.

9. Heterotrophs = Consumers Both heterotrophs and consumers obtain their food from other organisms.

10. Different Roles in an Ecosystem Carnivore eats other animals Onmivore eats both plants and animals Detritivore eats dead organisms Decomposer breaks down organic matter.

11. Food Chains and Webs Show feeding relationships.

12. Trophic Levels Show direction of energy flow. Only 10% of energy moves to the next trophic level.