Ecosystems (UAMS)

How does losing one species affect the components of an ecosystem?

All species within an ecosystem are connected in one way or another. The relationship is complex.

Within an ecosystem there are a number of plant and animal species that depend on each other for survival.

Sometimes the ways species relate and react to each other are obvious, such as a predator’s dependence on prey for food.

Other times the dependency is less obvious.  For example, when the prey depends on the
predator to provide a safe habitat or provide another important need.

The complex relationships among species within an ecosystem mean that even small changes in one population can cause extensive changes in other populations in the ecosystem.

In your group, discuss what the different things you think you would find in an ecosystem.  Add your group's ideas as a 'comment'.

The Study of Ecosystems (UMS)

How does losing one species affect the components of an ecosystem?

All species within an ecosystem are connected in one way or another. The relationship is complex.

Within an ecosystem there are a number of plant and animal species that depend on each other for survival.

Sometimes the ways species relate and react to each other are obvious, such as a predator’s dependence on prey for food.

Other times the dependency is less obvious. For example, when the prey depends on the
predator to provide a safe habitat or provide another important need.

The relationships among species in an ecosystem mean that even small changes in one population can cause big changes in other populations in that ecosystem. Your project will focus on these changes.

In your group, discuss what you learned about ecosystem and add a sentence or two using some of the science vocabulary words you reviewed today. Add your group's ideas as a 'comment'.