(a) Explain briefly the following ecological terms: (i) biosphere (ii) habitat (b) Describe the mode of nutrition in a named carnivorous plant. (c) State three reasons why the dispersal of fruits and seeds are important. (d) State six methods of conserving soil.
Explanation
(a)(i) Biosphere: Total/whole area, part of the earth/lithosphere/ hydrosphere/water, and atmosphere/air, inhabitable by living things/where life exists. (ii) Habitat: A place/home; within an environment, where an organism naturally lives/dwells. (b) Mode of nutrition of named carnivorous plants:
- Carnivorous plants have green leaves and are able to manufacture their own food carry out photosynthesis. They have roots to absorb water and mineral salts from the soil. Usually grow in places with little nitrogenous salts. Use insects/other small animals as source of Nitrogen. They have devices/modified leaves with bright colour/sents/sugary liquids/stcky wet surfaces for attracting and trapping insects. Once the insects is trapped, the plant secretes enzymes to kill and digest it. The soluble nitrogenous compounds are absorbed/assimilated by the plant.
Prevents overcrowding of plants. Prevents undersirable competition for space/light/water and nutrients. Prevents diseases from spreading among plant species. Results in colonization of new areas with new plants. Results in adaptation to adverse/harsh/unsuitable environment.
(d) Soil conservation method: -
Contour ploughing/ridges are made along the contour of a slopping land/to prevent water running down the hill/slope/and washing away soil. Strip cultivation/the land is divided into strips along the contours of the slopes/crops are planted in rows that alternate with the strips planted with cover crops/grasses. Terracing/constriction of terraces which create barriers to hinder rapid water flow down the slope. Mulching/materials left after weeding or harvest are left to lie on the soil/ protecting the soil against agents of erosion. Afforestation/cover cropping/growing grasses, trees and shrubs to cover and protect the soil. Crop rotation/growing crops on a piece of land in sequence/season after season to maintain its fertility. Storm drains/construction of barriers/to stop free-flow of surface water through farms. Application of manure/fertilizer/to stabilize the soil. Avoid bush burning. Avoid over grazing.