Ecology and Ecosystems — DU B.Sc. (Hons.) Environmental Science Previous Year Question Papers

Ecology and Ecosystems B.Sc. Environmental Sciences / Environmental 1. (a) What are the roles of habitat heterogeneity and landscape connectivity in ecosystem re.silience? (8) (b) How would you define eco-zones, and what are their defining characteristics? 2. Write short notes on the following : (b) Population density and Dispersion patterns (c) Species associations in communities (d) Detritus-based energy flow pathways 3. 4. 5. 6. Differentiate the following (any three) : (a) Eltonian niche vs. Hutchinsonian niche (b) Geometric vs. Logistic population growth (c) Mutualism vs. Protocooperation (d) Primary productivity vs. Secondar.y productivity (a) Explain the climax 6ommunity concept and the major models associated with it. (8) (b) Discuss the steps for determining ecological efficiency using energy pyramids. ( 7) (a) Elaborate on the mechanisms by which invasive species alter community structure. (8) (b) Discuss nutrient conservation strategies adopted by plants in nutrient-poor environment s. (7) Describe different steps to undertake restoration of degraded or contaminated ecosystems. ( 15)