CHAPTER 9: Introduction to the Biosphere

a). Origin and Definition of Life

b). Biological Classification of Organisms

c). Natural Selection and Evolution

d). Organization of Life: Species, Populations, Communities, and Ecosystems

e). Abiotic Factors and the Distribution of Species

f). Biotic Interactions and the Distribution of Species

g). Concept of Ecological Niche

h). Species Diversity and Biodiversity

i). Plant Succession

j). Introduction to the Ecosystem Concept

k). Characteristics of the Earth's Terrestrial Biomes

l). Primary Productivity of Plants

m). Production by Consumers and the Grazing Food Chain

n). Organic Decomposition and the Detritus Food Chain

o). Trophic Pyramids and Food Webs

p). Biogeochemical Cycling: Inputs and Outputs of Nutrients to Ecosystems

q). Soil Organic Matter Decomposition and Nutrient Cycling

r). The Carbon Cycle

s). The Nitrogen Cycle

Study Guide

Additional Readings

Internet Weblinks