AP Biology Summer Assignment: Photo Blog

  (Term #78: Predation) Definition: Predation refers to the relationship between predator and prey. A predator is an organism that eats other organisms for energy; the prey is the organism eaten by the predator.  Explanation:  This photograph shows a spider's web; spiders are predators. Many species of spider catch insects in their webs, wrap them in spider silk, and then consume them. The interaction between spiders and insects is an example of predation. 

  (Term #37: Exoskeleton) Definition:  Exoskeletons are a structure on the outside, rather than inside, of an animal's body that provides protection for the animal. Explanation:  This is an insect exoskeleton. All insects have exoskeletons to protect their bodies. As insects grow, some shed one exoskeleton and then grow a second, larger one. 

  (Term #76: Pollinator) Definition:  Pollen from one flower must be introduced to the stigma of another for fertilization to occur. Pollinators are animals that spread pollen through their behavior and movements.  Explanation: This photo shows a bee on a clover. Bees are pollinators that fly from flower to flower collecting pollen to make honey, and in doing so, they brush pollen onto new plants. 

(Term #46: Gymnosperm Cone) Definition: Gymnosperms are plants with exposed seeds that grow inside female cones. Male cones release pollen, which is caught by the scales of the female cones.  Explanation: This is a female spruce tree cone; female cones tend to be larger than male cones. 

  (Term #47: Gymnosperm Leaf) Definition:  A gymnosperm is a plant that has exposed seeds, rather than producing seeds inside of fruit. Gymnosperm leaves are usually needle or scale-shaped.  Explanation: This photo shows the needle-shaped leaves of a spruce tree, which is a gymnosperm. 

  (Term #62: Mating Behavior) Definition: Mating behavior is defined as the social behaviors and interactions of a species tied to mating. Explanation:  Fireflies flash light in patterns to locate and communicate with potential partners. This photograph shows two lit male fireflies flying above grass.

  (Term #58: Lichen) Definition: Lichen is a mix of fungus and a photosynthetic organism, either algae or cyanobacteria. The photosynthetic organism produces energy which the fungus consumes, and the fungus gives structure.  Explanation: This photo shows blue-green lichen growing on a tree trunk, facing the sun. Lichen can also grow on rocks.

 (Term #77: Population) Definition: A population refers to all individuals of a species living in a defined area. Explanation:  This anthill is an entrance to the nest of a colony of ants. A colony is a population of a specific ant species that lives and works together.