How Is Net Ecosystem Production (NEP) Typically Estimated in Ecosystems

question 23

Multiple Choice

How is net ecosystem production (NEP) typically estimated in ecosystems?

• A) the ratio of producers to consumers
• B) the amount of heat energy released by the ecosystem
• C) the net flux of CO₂ or O₂ in or out of an ecosystem
• D) the rate of decomposition by detritivores
• E) the annual total of incoming solar radiation per unit of area

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Definitions:

Reactive Astrocytosis

An adaptive response in which astrocytes, a type of glial cell in the central nervous system, proliferate and hypertrophy in response to injury or disease.

Bipolar

Characterized by two distinct extremes, such as the mood swings seen in bipolar disorder, but also referring to cells with two different poles (e.g., bipolar neurons).

Glial Cell

Non-neuronal cells in the central and peripheral nervous system that provide support and protection for neurons.

Astrocyte

Star-shaped neuroglia cell involved with forming the blood-brain barrier.