Open the App

Subjects

AP Biology

Nov 29, 2025

245

5 pages

Comprehensive Study Guide for AP Biology: Unit 8 - Ecology

A

Aaron Jackson @aaronjackson_kbwj

Ecology is the study of how living organisms interact with each other and their environment. This branch of... Show more

AP Biology Study Guide
VIII. Ecology:
1. Ecosystems
Biotic and abiotic factors:
O
O
O
Biotic factors refer to living components of an ecosys

Ecosystems The Building Blocks of Nature

Ecosystems consist of both biotic factors (living components like plants, animals, fungi, and bacteria) and abiotic factors nonlivingcomponentsliketemperature,water,sunlight,andsoilnon-living components like temperature, water, sunlight, and soil. These components work together to create functioning natural systems.

Energy flows through ecosystems in a one-way direction. It starts with producers (mostly plants) that convert sunlight into chemical energy through photosynthesis. This energy then passes to consumers (animals that eat plants or other animals) and finally to decomposers (fungi and bacteria) that break down dead organisms.

Nutrients like carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus continuously cycle through ecosystems. Unlike energy, nutrients don't flow one way but instead get recycled. Plants absorb these elements, animals consume them, and decomposers release them back into the environment for reuse.

Quick Fact While energy can only flow in one direction through an ecosystem (and is eventually lost as heat), nutrients are constantly recycled—making decomposers like fungi and bacteria essential for ecosystem health!

AP Biology Study Guide
VIII. Ecology:
1. Ecosystems
Biotic and abiotic factors:
O
O
O
Biotic factors refer to living components of an ecosys

Community Ecology Species Living Together

Species interact with each other in various important ways. Competition happens when species fight over the same resources like food or habitat. Predation occurs when one species hunts another. Symbiosis represents long-term interactions between species—with mutualism being the type where both species benefit from the relationship.

Ecosystems change over time through a process called succession. Primary succession starts in brand new habitats (like after a volcanic eruption) when pioneer species like lichens and mosses first colonize the area and create soil. Secondary succession happens after disturbances like fires where soil already exists, allowing for faster recovery.

Biodiversity, the variety of species in an ecosystem, is crucial for healthy ecosystems. Each species plays a unique role, and together they provide essential services like clean water, pollination, and soil fertility. The more diverse an ecosystem, the more resilient it tends to be against disturbances.

Remember This When you see an empty lot gradually filling with plants over time, you're witnessing succession in action—nature's way of rebuilding communities!

AP Biology Study Guide
VIII. Ecology:
1. Ecosystems
Biotic and abiotic factors:
O
O
O
Biotic factors refer to living components of an ecosys

Population Ecology Understanding Groups

Population size changes based on four key factors birth rate, death rate, immigration, and emigration. If more individuals are born than die, or if more move in than leave, the population grows. The opposite causes population decline. These simple principles explain how animal and plant populations change over time.

Every ecosystem has a carrying capacity—the maximum number of individuals it can support. Resources like food, water, and habitat determine this limit. When a population reaches carrying capacity, growth stops and may even reverse if resources become scarce.

Population sizes rarely stay stable in nature. They fluctuate due to factors like disease, predation, and competition. Boom and bust cycles occur when rapid population growth is followed by sharp decline, often because the population exceeded carrying capacity and depleted resources.

Think About It The next time you see a sudden increase in a local animal population (like squirrels or rabbits), consider what factors might be causing this growth and what might eventually limit it!

AP Biology Study Guide
VIII. Ecology:
1. Ecosystems
Biotic and abiotic factors:
O
O
O
Biotic factors refer to living components of an ecosys

Biomes Earth's Major Ecosystems

Earth contains several major terrestrial biomes including tundra, taiga, temperate forests, tropical rainforests, deserts, and grasslands. Aquatic biomes include freshwater environments (like lakes and rivers) and marine environments (like oceans and coral reefs). Each has distinctive plant and animal communities.

Climate shapes the characteristics of each biome. Tundra regions have extremely cold temperatures and permafrost, while tropical rainforests feature warm temperatures, high rainfall, and dense vegetation. The plant and animal species in each biome have special adaptations that help them survive in these specific conditions.

The distribution of biomes across Earth follows patterns related to latitude, altitude, and geography. As you move from the equator toward the poles, you'll encounter different biomes in a predictable sequence. Similarly, as you climb a mountain, you'll pass through biome zones that mimic this latitudinal pattern.

Cool Connection Your local park or neighborhood contains mini-ecosystems that function similarly to the world's major biomes—just look for the interactions between plants, animals, and their environment!

AP Biology Study Guide
VIII. Ecology:
1. Ecosystems
Biotic and abiotic factors:
O
O
O
Biotic factors refer to living components of an ecosys

Ecological Adaptations

The plant and animal species found in each biome have evolved specific adaptations to survive in their environment. Desert plants might have waxy coatings to prevent water loss, while tundra animals often have thick fur and compact bodies to conserve heat.

These adaptations show how evolution has shaped species to fit their ecological niches. The relationship between organisms and their environment demonstrates the power of natural selection in creating biological diversity across Earth's many ecosystems.

Why It Matters Understanding ecological adaptations helps us predict how species might respond to environmental changes, including those caused by climate change and habitat destruction.

We thought you’d never ask...

What is the Knowunity AI companion?

Our AI companion is specifically built for the needs of students. Based on the millions of content pieces we have on the platform we can provide truly meaningful and relevant answers to students. But its not only about answers, the companion is even more about guiding students through their daily learning challenges, with personalised study plans, quizzes or content pieces in the chat and 100% personalisation based on the students skills and developments.

Where can I download the Knowunity app?

You can download the app in the Google Play Store and in the Apple App Store.

Is Knowunity really free of charge?

That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.

Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.

Students love us — and so will you.

4.9/5

App Store

4.8/5

Google Play

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️

Thomas R

iOS user

Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades

Brad T

Android user

Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend

Aubrey

iOS user

Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀

Marco B

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!

Paul T

iOS user

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️

Thomas R

iOS user

Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades

Brad T

Android user

Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend

Aubrey

iOS user

Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀

Marco B

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!

Paul T

iOS user

 

AP Biology

245

Nov 29, 2025

5 pages

Comprehensive Study Guide for AP Biology: Unit 8 - Ecology

A

Aaron Jackson

@aaronjackson_kbwj

Ecology is the study of how living organisms interact with each other and their environment. This branch of biology explores everything from tiny interactions between species to the functioning of entire ecosystems and global biomes. Understanding ecological concepts helps us... Show more

AP Biology Study Guide
VIII. Ecology:
1. Ecosystems
Biotic and abiotic factors:
O
O
O
Biotic factors refer to living components of an ecosys

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Ecosystems: The Building Blocks of Nature

Ecosystems consist of both biotic factors (living components like plants, animals, fungi, and bacteria) and abiotic factors nonlivingcomponentsliketemperature,water,sunlight,andsoilnon-living components like temperature, water, sunlight, and soil. These components work together to create functioning natural systems.

Energy flows through ecosystems in a one-way direction. It starts with producers (mostly plants) that convert sunlight into chemical energy through photosynthesis. This energy then passes to consumers (animals that eat plants or other animals) and finally to decomposers (fungi and bacteria) that break down dead organisms.

Nutrients like carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus continuously cycle through ecosystems. Unlike energy, nutrients don't flow one way but instead get recycled. Plants absorb these elements, animals consume them, and decomposers release them back into the environment for reuse.

Quick Fact: While energy can only flow in one direction through an ecosystem (and is eventually lost as heat), nutrients are constantly recycled—making decomposers like fungi and bacteria essential for ecosystem health!

AP Biology Study Guide
VIII. Ecology:
1. Ecosystems
Biotic and abiotic factors:
O
O
O
Biotic factors refer to living components of an ecosys

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Community Ecology: Species Living Together

Species interact with each other in various important ways. Competition happens when species fight over the same resources like food or habitat. Predation occurs when one species hunts another. Symbiosis represents long-term interactions between species—with mutualism being the type where both species benefit from the relationship.

Ecosystems change over time through a process called succession. Primary succession starts in brand new habitats (like after a volcanic eruption) when pioneer species like lichens and mosses first colonize the area and create soil. Secondary succession happens after disturbances like fires where soil already exists, allowing for faster recovery.

Biodiversity, the variety of species in an ecosystem, is crucial for healthy ecosystems. Each species plays a unique role, and together they provide essential services like clean water, pollination, and soil fertility. The more diverse an ecosystem, the more resilient it tends to be against disturbances.

Remember This: When you see an empty lot gradually filling with plants over time, you're witnessing succession in action—nature's way of rebuilding communities!

AP Biology Study Guide
VIII. Ecology:
1. Ecosystems
Biotic and abiotic factors:
O
O
O
Biotic factors refer to living components of an ecosys

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Population Ecology: Understanding Groups

Population size changes based on four key factors: birth rate, death rate, immigration, and emigration. If more individuals are born than die, or if more move in than leave, the population grows. The opposite causes population decline. These simple principles explain how animal and plant populations change over time.

Every ecosystem has a carrying capacity—the maximum number of individuals it can support. Resources like food, water, and habitat determine this limit. When a population reaches carrying capacity, growth stops and may even reverse if resources become scarce.

Population sizes rarely stay stable in nature. They fluctuate due to factors like disease, predation, and competition. Boom and bust cycles occur when rapid population growth is followed by sharp decline, often because the population exceeded carrying capacity and depleted resources.

Think About It: The next time you see a sudden increase in a local animal population (like squirrels or rabbits), consider what factors might be causing this growth and what might eventually limit it!

AP Biology Study Guide
VIII. Ecology:
1. Ecosystems
Biotic and abiotic factors:
O
O
O
Biotic factors refer to living components of an ecosys

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Biomes: Earth's Major Ecosystems

Earth contains several major terrestrial biomes including tundra, taiga, temperate forests, tropical rainforests, deserts, and grasslands. Aquatic biomes include freshwater environments (like lakes and rivers) and marine environments (like oceans and coral reefs). Each has distinctive plant and animal communities.

Climate shapes the characteristics of each biome. Tundra regions have extremely cold temperatures and permafrost, while tropical rainforests feature warm temperatures, high rainfall, and dense vegetation. The plant and animal species in each biome have special adaptations that help them survive in these specific conditions.

The distribution of biomes across Earth follows patterns related to latitude, altitude, and geography. As you move from the equator toward the poles, you'll encounter different biomes in a predictable sequence. Similarly, as you climb a mountain, you'll pass through biome zones that mimic this latitudinal pattern.

Cool Connection: Your local park or neighborhood contains mini-ecosystems that function similarly to the world's major biomes—just look for the interactions between plants, animals, and their environment!

AP Biology Study Guide
VIII. Ecology:
1. Ecosystems
Biotic and abiotic factors:
O
O
O
Biotic factors refer to living components of an ecosys

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Ecological Adaptations

The plant and animal species found in each biome have evolved specific adaptations to survive in their environment. Desert plants might have waxy coatings to prevent water loss, while tundra animals often have thick fur and compact bodies to conserve heat.

These adaptations show how evolution has shaped species to fit their ecological niches. The relationship between organisms and their environment demonstrates the power of natural selection in creating biological diversity across Earth's many ecosystems.

Why It Matters: Understanding ecological adaptations helps us predict how species might respond to environmental changes, including those caused by climate change and habitat destruction.

We thought you’d never ask...

What is the Knowunity AI companion?

Our AI companion is specifically built for the needs of students. Based on the millions of content pieces we have on the platform we can provide truly meaningful and relevant answers to students. But its not only about answers, the companion is even more about guiding students through their daily learning challenges, with personalised study plans, quizzes or content pieces in the chat and 100% personalisation based on the students skills and developments.

Where can I download the Knowunity app?

You can download the app in the Google Play Store and in the Apple App Store.

Is Knowunity really free of charge?

That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.

Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.

Students love us — and so will you.

4.9/5

App Store

4.8/5

Google Play

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️

Thomas R

iOS user

Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades

Brad T

Android user

Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend

Aubrey

iOS user

Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀

Marco B

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!

Paul T

iOS user

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️

Thomas R

iOS user

Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades

Brad T

Android user

Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend

Aubrey

iOS user

Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀

Marco B

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!

Paul T

iOS user