Defining Habitat: The Natural Home of Species

Habitat classification criteria

Terrestrial vs. Aquatic habitats

Habitat change factors

'Habitat' describes the natural ______ of an organism, providing essential conditions for its ______.

The word 'biotope' is sometimes used as a synonym for 'habitat,' but it specifically denotes an area with consistent ______ conditions and unique ______ of flora and fauna.

______ factors such as temperature, ______, soil type, and resources like food and shelter affect the global distribution of habitats.

Cacti adaptations in deserts

Fish adaptations in dark caves

Role of ecological disturbances in biodiversity

Land-based ecosystems vary from ______ to ______, each with distinct climate and soil characteristics.

Water-based ecosystems include ______ systems and ______ environments like ______, ______, and ______.

Each habitat supports life forms adapted to conditions such as ______, ______, and ______.

______ and ______ areas, influenced by humans, have become key ecological niches for some adaptable species.

Definition of Microhabitats

Examples of Microhabitats

Importance of Microhabitat Diversity

______ are life forms that flourish in extreme environments previously deemed uninhabitable.

Extremophiles can be found in places like ______ vents, high-salinity ______, and acidic hot ______.

These organisms possess special ______ mechanisms enabling them to endure and multiply in harsh conditions.

Extremophiles can withstand extreme ______, ______, or ______ levels.