GLOSSARY SESSION 2
1. Primary Productivity:
The rate at which plants and algae use sunlight to make food (energy) through
photosynthesis. It’s the starting point of energy in an ecosystem. Measured by
how much plant material is made over time.
2. Heterotrophs:
Living things that cannot make their own food and need to eat other organisms to
get energy. Includes animals, fungi, and many bacteria. They are important as
consumers and decomposers.
3. Autotrophs:
Organisms that make their own food from sunlight or chemicals. Includes plants,
algae, and some bacteria. They are the base of most food chains.
4. Primary
Producers:
Autotrophs that make energy-rich food from sunlight or chemicals. They feed
other organisms and support the entire food chain. Their activity affects how
productive an ecosystem is.
5. Carbon:
A key element found in all living things. It is part of molecules like sugars,
proteins, and fats. Carbon moves through the air, water, land, and living things in
the carbon cycle.
6. Upwelling:
When deep, cold, and nutrient-rich water rises to the ocean surface. This helps
tiny plants (phytoplankton) grow and supports marine life. It makes ocean areas
more productive.
7. Nutrients:
Chemicals that living things need to grow and stay alive, like nitrogen and
phosphorus. In water, they help plants like phytoplankton grow. Too much or too
little affects ecosystems.
8. Decomposers:
Organisms that break down dead plants and animals into simple materials. These
materials return to the environment as nutrients. Decomposers keep ecosystems
clean and balanced.
9. Phytoplankton:
Tiny, plant-like organisms that float in water and use sunlight to make food. They
are the base of the ocean food chain and produce much of the Earth’s oxygen.
10. Zooplankton:
Small animals that float in water and often eat phytoplankton. They are food for
many fish and larger animals. Includes tiny crustaceans and baby sea animals.
11. Oceans:
Large bodies of salty water that cover over 70% of Earth’s surface. They control
the weather, store carbon, and are home to many living things. Healthy oceans are
important for life on Earth.
12. Ocean
Circulation:
Movement of ocean water caused by wind, temperature, and salt levels. It moves
heat, nutrients, and gases around the planet. It affects weather and ocean life.
13. Photosynthesis:
The process where plants and algae use sunlight, water, and carbon dioxide to
make food. It also releases oxygen. It’s how most life on Earth gets energy.
14. Organic
Matter:
Material that comes from living things, like leaves, dead animals, or waste. It
contains carbon and provides nutrients to other organisms.
15. Biomass:
The total amount of living material in a certain area or ecosystem. It shows how
much life and energy is present. Can be measured for plants, animals, or both.