1.1 Introduction to Ecosystems

Explain how the availability of resources influences species interactions.

• In a predator-prey relationship, the predator is an organism that eats another organism (the prey).
• Symbiosis is a close and long-term interaction between two species in an ecosystem. Types of symbiosis include mutualism, commensalism, and parasitism.
• Competition can occur within or between species in an ecosystem where there are limited resources. Resource partitioning—using the resources in different ways, places, or at different times—can reduce the negative impact of competition on survival.
• Enduring understanding ERT-1: Ecosystems are the result of biotic and abiotic interactions.