RNR 1001 Lecture : RNR Notes 004
Document Summary
Life in the biosphere depends on photosynthesis by autotrophic organisms. The biosphere contains living organisms, about 10,000 m +- Earth system is also include this: atmosphere, geosphere, hydrosphere, cryosphere. Photosynthesis in terrestrial systems is primarily dependent on temperature, water availability, and nutrient concentrations. Photosynthesis in aquatic systems also depends on temperature and nutrient concentrations, but is also highly dependent on light. Life in the biosphere is based on the evolution of species. Organisms that can interbreed and produce completely fertile offspring. Species exist in one or more populations. Species living together that do actually breed and exchange genetic material. Populations of different species live together in communities. All of the populations living together within a habitat place to live. The community in any habitat exhibits characteristic richness and evenness. Richness refers to the number of species in a community, or the number of species in an assemblage. Each species can be described by it"s ecological niche.
