colony
Definition
A colony is a group of organisms that live together in a particular place and share resources.
Colonies can be found in a variety of environments, including the ocean, the desert, and the rainforest.
Some common examples of colonies include:
- Ant colonies: Ant colonies are made up of a queen ant, workers, and soldiers.
- Beehives: Beehives are made up of a queen bee, worker bees, and drones.
- Termite mounds: Termite mounds are made up of a queen termite, workers, and soldiers.
Colonies can be beneficial to the organisms that live in them, as they provide protection, food, and a place to raise young.
Colonies can also be harmful to the environment, as they can damage plants and animals.
How can the word be used?
The bacteria formed a colony on the Petri dish.
Different forms of the word
Noun:
Colony: a group of people who settle in a new place and remain subject to the rule of their native country.
Colonization: the act of establishing a colony.
Colonizer: a person who establishes a colony.
Adjective:
Colonial: relating to a colony or colonies.
Colonialism: the policy of establishing colonies.
Colonist: a person who lives in a colony.
Etymology
The word "colony" comes from the Latin word "colonia", which means "settlement". It was first used in English in the 14th century to refer to a group of people who settled in a new place and remained subject to the rule of their native country.
Question
What animals can gather in a colony?
AQA Science Exam Question and Answer
Question:
Define the term "colony" in the context of biology, and provide an example of a colony-forming organism and its significance in ecological systems.
Answer:
In biology, a "colony" refers to a group of organisms of the same species living closely together and interacting as a collective unit. These organisms often share a common origin and can work together to achieve specific goals.
An example of a colony-forming organism is the honeybee (Apis mellifera). Honeybees live in large colonies, consisting of a queen, worker bees, and drones. Each member of the colony has a specific role and contributes to the survival and functioning of the entire community. The worker bees collect nectar and pollen, build and maintain the hive, and care for the young, while the queen's primary role is reproduction.
The significance of honeybee colonies extends beyond their role in honey production. They are essential pollinators for many flowering plants, including crops that provide food for humans and other animals. Their pollination services contribute significantly to ecosystem health and agricultural productivity.
Overall, colonies in biology demonstrate the cooperative behaviour of organisms within a group and play crucial roles in ecosystem dynamics and human livelihoods.