Michigan Test for Teacher Certification (MTTC) Secondary Integrated Science Practice test

What term describes a group of populations residing in the same area?

1. Biomes

2. Community

3. Habitat

4. Society

The correct answer is: Community

The term that describes a group of populations residing in the same area is "community." In ecological terms, a community refers to all the different species that live together in a particular location and interact with one another. These interactions can include various forms of relationships such as predation, competition, and symbiosis. Communities are essential for understanding ecological dynamics, as they include not only the populations of plants and animals but also the interactions that shape their existence within an ecosystem. This distinguishes a community from other ecological concepts. For instance, "biomes" refers to large geographical areas characterized by specific climates and ecosystems, encompassing many communities. "Habitat" describes the physical environment where an organism or community of organisms lives, including the resources and conditions necessary for survival. "Society" is not commonly used in an ecological context and would generally refer to a group of individuals of the same species that interact in a social manner rather than encompassing multiple populations. By understanding the concept of a community, one can gain insight into the complex interrelationships that define ecosystems and biodiversity.