How Do Organisms Compete And Survive In An Ecosystem?

Explanation
In ecology, a population refers to all the individuals of the same species that live in a particular area and interact with each other. It is a fundamental unit of study in ecology and provides insights into the dynamics and interactions within a specific ecosystem. A population consists of individuals that share common characteristics and can interbreed, contributing to the genetic diversity of the species. Therefore, the correct answer is population.

Explanation
A community refers to a group of populations living in the same area and interacting with one another. It includes different species that coexist and interact within their shared environment. This term is used to describe the relationships and interactions between organisms of different species, highlighting the interconnectedness and interdependence within an ecosystem.

Explanation
Competition refers to the struggle or rivalry between individuals or populations for limited resources such as food, water, shelter, and space. This challenge is faced by every population as they compete with each other to meet their basic needs for survival.

Explanation
An adaptation is a characteristic that helps an organism survive and compete in an ecosystem. It refers to the process by which an organism becomes better suited to its environment over time. This can include physical traits, behaviors, or physiological changes that enhance an organism's ability to survive, reproduce, and thrive in its specific habitat. Adaptations can be inherited or acquired through the course of an organism's life, and they play a crucial role in allowing organisms to meet the challenges and demands of their environment.

Explanation
A limiting factor is something that restricts the growth or size of a population. It can be any factor, such as availability of resources, competition, predation, disease, or environmental conditions, that prevents a population from reaching its maximum potential. Limiting factors play a crucial role in regulating population size and maintaining balance within an ecosystem.

Explanation
Symbiosis refers to a relationship between different kinds of organisms that benefits each of them in meeting their basic needs. In symbiotic relationships, organisms rely on each other for survival, often by providing resources or services. This can include mutualistic relationships where both organisms benefit, as well as parasitic or commensal relationships where one organism benefits while the other is harmed or unaffected. Overall, symbiosis plays a crucial role in maintaining the balance and functioning of ecosystems.

Explanation
Commensalism is a type of symbiotic relationship where one organism benefits while the other is not affected. In this type of interaction, the organism that benefits may use the other organism for transportation, shelter, or access to food without causing any harm or benefit to the other organism. This relationship is often seen in nature where one organism gains an advantage while the other organism remains unaffected.

Explanation
Parasitism is the correct answer because it describes a type of symbiotic relationship where one organism benefits at the expense of the other. In this relationship, the parasite benefits by feeding off the host organism, causing harm or even death to the host. This differs from mutualism, where both organisms benefit, commensalism, where one organism benefits and the other is unaffected, and symbiosis, which is a general term for any close and long-term interaction between two organisms.

Explanation
A predator is an animal that hunts, kills, and feeds on other animals. Predators are typically carnivorous and have adaptations such as sharp teeth and claws to help them capture and kill their prey. They play an important role in maintaining the balance of ecosystems by controlling the population of other animals.

Explanation
Prey refers to animals that are hunted and eaten by other animals. They are the victims in the predator-prey relationship, serving as a source of food for predators. This term is used to describe the role of animals in the food chain, highlighting their vulnerability and the fact that they are the ones being consumed.