STAAR Science

Front

What are feral hogs and how do they impact ecosystems?

Back

Feral hogs are wild pigs that have escaped from domestication. They are omnivores that feed on native plants, crops, and small animals, damaging ecosystems by rooting through soil and trampling plants.

Front

What types of organisms do feral hogs compete with for food?

Back

Feral hogs most likely compete with herbivores and carnivores for food sources.

Front

What is the effect of giant salvinia on aquatic ecosystems?

Back

Giant salvinia can deplete oxygen levels in water as it decomposes, negatively impacting fish populations.

Front

What prediction can be made about a pond covered by giant salvinia?

Back

Fish populations in the pond will begin to decrease due to reduced oxygen levels.

Front

How does salt concentration affect plant species?

Back

Different plant species have varying tolerances to salt concentration; some can sprout in both freshwater and saltwater, while others may only sprout in specific conditions.

Front

What is cellulose and why is it important for plants?

Back

Cellulose is a carbon-containing molecule that provides structural support to plants, allowing them to grow larger.

Front

Where do plants obtain carbon for building structural molecules?

Back

Plants obtain the majority of the carbon necessary for building structural molecules from the air.

Front

What environmental resource is often scarce for the Couch’s spadefoot?

Back

Water is often scarce in the environment where the Couch’s spadefoot lives.

Front

What is an omnivore?

Back

An omnivore is an organism that eats both plants and animals.

Front

What role do decomposers play in an ecosystem?

Back

Decomposers break down dead organic material, recycling nutrients back into the ecosystem.