Practice Test Geeks(CES) Certified Environmental Scientist Practice Test
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Ecological Risk Assessment & Biodiversity Flashcards

7 cards from real CES practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.

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  1. In ERA, which endpoint type directly measures effects on individual organisms rather than populations or ecosystems?

    Answer: Measurement endpoint

    Measurement endpoints are quantifiable ecological characteristics used to evaluate exposures and effects, measured at the individual organism level.

  2. The Simpson's Diversity Index (D) is calculated as D = 1 - Σ(n/N)². A value of D closer to 1 indicates:

    Answer: High diversity with many equally abundant species

    Simpson's Index approaches 1 as diversity increases, reflecting more species with more equal abundances.

  3. Which U.S. EPA guidance document provides the primary framework for conducting ecological risk assessments?

    Answer: EPA/630/R-95/002F (Guidelines for ERA)

    EPA's 1998 Guidelines for Ecological Risk Assessment (EPA/630/R-95/002F) is the primary framework document for ERA in the U.S.

  4. A species exhibits a Type III survivorship curve. This means mortality is:

    Answer: Highest among juveniles with survivors living long lives

    Type III survivorship curves show high early mortality (juveniles) but low mortality rates for survivors, typical of many fish, insects, and plants.

  5. In population viability analysis (PVA), the minimum viable population (MVP) is defined as the population size needed to ensure:

    Answer: A 95% probability of persistence for 100 years

    MVP typically represents the minimum population size with a 95% chance of persistence for 100 years, accounting for demographic and environmental stochasticity.

  6. Which of the following best describes 'functional redundancy' in an ecosystem?

    Answer: Multiple species performing the same ecological role

    Functional redundancy occurs when multiple species perform the same ecological function, providing insurance against species loss.

  7. The NOEC (No Observed Effect Concentration) in aquatic toxicity testing has been criticized primarily because:

    Answer: It is statistically dependent on sample size and test variability

    NOEC is the highest tested concentration showing no statistically significant effect, making it sensitive to statistical power and experimental design rather than biology.